MINDEMOYA—The annual Journey to Bethlehem, a multi-denominational, family-oriented outdoor presentation of the Christmas story, will be held this Friday and Saturday in Mindemoya.
Since its beginning in 1998, the annual event organized collectively by the churches of Mindemoya, has brought more than 1,000 people from across Ontario to celebrate the birth of Jesus.
With over 100 costumed volunteers, plus many more behind the scenes assisting with organization, sets and costumes, and over 200 candles, participants are taken back in time and led on an interactive walk to Bethlehem, passing beggars, guards, shepherds, the three wise men, encounter a choir of angels, visit a market, an inn, and eventually meet Mary, Joseph and a live baby Jesus.
The idea for the annual Island event was inspired by the Walk of Love in Bruce Mines. The church leaders of Mindemoya were in the process of discussing the idea of a nativity scene production, bringing together representatives from each of the Mindemoya churches to form an organizational committee, and thus the Journey to Bethlehem was born.
The production has grown since its inception, as have the volunteers offering their ideas and talents.
Each year the production brings out hundreds of individuals from not only Manitoulin, but across the North and even some southern Ontario visitors.
Journey to Bethlehem starts this Friday, December 6 at 6 pm at the Mindemoya Missionary Church and goes until 8:30 pm. This is also the same night as the Mindemoya Christmas Shopping Spree, so make a night of it! The production will also be open to the public on Saturday, December 7 from 6 to 8:30 pm.
The cost is free, but free will offerings are appreciated.
