Journey to the Manger brought the Christmas story to life through live displays.
More than 750 sojourners gathered at the Bakersville Creek Walk earlier this month to obey the decree to register for the census.
They were greeted by a priest (Dr. Marcus Benfield) who introduced the Journey to the Manger and costumed guides used their shepherd’s crooks to guide groups along the way. In addition to enacting each scene, music and scriptures were presented.
James Laws directed the music and Bethany Laws Grindstaff and Sharon Rowland provided leadership. More information and pictures can be found at christmasneaththeroan.com and Facebook page @journeytothemanger Mitchell.
Sixteen churches, groups and families created sets and designed costumes to depict each scene with more than 100 actors performing. The scenes and presenting groups follow.
The Decree to Participate in the Census was managed by Mine Creek pastor Chris Rathbone and Mark Falvey. Gabriel Appears to Mary was presented by Central Baptist Church Youth Group and Yancey County youth.
Mary Visits Elizabeth was presented by the Blanton, Payne and Cook families. John the Baptist Birth was created by Mine Creek Baptist Church youth and adults. Angel Appears to Joseph was presented by Altapass Baptist Church members. Mary Goes to Joseph was created by Brandon Pittman, Shalea Reece and Jace Blanton.
Shepherds Plan to Visit Baby Jesus was developed by Roan Valley Baptist youth and children’s group. They were the youngest performing group. On Sunday evening, Doug Harrell and members of Mine Creek Baptist enacted the scene.
Little Rock Creek Baptist Church presented “Star in the East and Maji” and three horsemen (Sally Woody, Bruce Woody, John and Harley Masters) created lighted images of the Wisemen.
Beaver Creek Baptist Church members enacted “No Room at the Inn”.
At the beginning of the Nativity, a Bethlehem Market was created with villagers throwing pots, selling oils, pearls, and cloth and offering bread and fruit. The Birth of the Christ Child was presented by Roan Mountain Baptist Church youth group and adults. This was their second performance of the Nativity.
Bear Creek Baptist Church youth and adults told the story of the Empty Tomb and Cross through the eyes of Nicodemus and sojourners visited the empty tomb.
Kathy Kuhne led a Christmas choir and guests sang along. On Saturday evening, Alli Grace Pittman led off the lineup. She was followed by Ron Stirling who performed both nights and Sunday was closed out by Roberta Whiteside. Mike McKinney from the Grove Church and Bob Hensley from Red Hill Methodist managed the concert.