Head back to Bethlehem

St Philip’s Anglican Church’s Journey to Bethlehem returns this Christmas and will be in the church grounds from December 8 for everyone to enjoy.

The beautiful display contains six scenes telling the story of the birth of Jesus.

The installations illustrate the time when the angel first told Mary she was going to have a baby, Mary and Joseph travelling to Bethlehem, where the birth of Jesus and the visits of the shepherds and the wise men took place.

The project is a team effort with Paul Woodford and Fernanda Guimareas working on the scenes.

The public response last year to the display was wonderful, with many families coming to view the story scenes.

Unfortunately, the little donkey from the display was stolen, but a new donkey has been created, cut out by Steve Kay and painted by Fernanda.

However the church committee is hopeful the original donkey will one day be returned to its home.

This year the display has expanded to include a stable.

On December 9, the 9am church service is titled Journey to Bethlehem and after the service people will have the opportunity to add stars to the stable.

The display is a visual reminder of the Christmas story.

“These days, so many don’t know the Christmas story, all they know is Santa, snowflakes and reindeers,” said one committee member.

“We’re hoping with our display people will be reminded about the real story and where it all came from.”

Everyone is invited to come on a “Journey to Bethlehem” – bring your friends and neighbours as well.

At night, a flood light from the church hall will illuminate the scene, which will be in place until around New Year’s Eve.

You can find the Journey to Bethlehem at St Philip’s Anglican Church, 102 Thompson Avenue, Cowes.