“Walk To Bethlehem” expects 2,000 visitors

The event takes place today, Saturday, December 15, and tomorrow, Sunday, December 16, at the Hudson Community Baptist Church, in Saint-Lazare. The first of the three-evening performances took place yesterday, Friday, December 14. More than 1,000 visitors were at each of the two previous walks held in 2005 and 2006. “The cast of 110 people are all volunteers from the church congregation and friends. They will be dressed up in the authentic costumes and long cloaks worn by the people of Bethlehem, 2,000 years ago. The three kings will be resplendent in purple and gold. There will be live animals, including donkeys, sheep, chickens and goats. Real fires and lanterns will light the way for visitors to walk through the streets of Bethlehem to greet the Baby Jesus, and his parents, Mary and Joseph, in a real stable in a real barn,” said Kathryn Stephens, a member of the production team. The old split-rail fences and barns of the former horse farm, which remain on the church property, create the perfect props for the half-hour conducted tours. Visitors will be treated like families going to Bethlehem to pay their taxes. They will have « sheks » to give to the tax collector. During the theatrical excursion, dating back to the time just before Christ’s birth, friendly guides will escort the visitors through Bethlehem. The guides will protect the visitors from the Roman soldiers, beggars and thieves and they will meet shepherds, wise men, and even angels before finding the Baby Jesus in the manger. @: Christmas goodies After the outdoor walk, visitors are invited inside and enjoy home-made Christmas goodies, hot drinks and listen to Christmas carols. The walks start at 6 p.m. and continue until 9 p.m. The concept of the “Walk to Bethlehem” was introduced three years ago by Gillian Hanson, who moved to Quebec from Ontario with her husband, Steve, and their four children. The production team started its plans and preparations in June. The cast started rehearsing in September, and the outdoor set for Bethlehem is constructed over a seven-day period in November. The walk is held in rain, snow or shine. Everyone is advised to dress warmly. “It is frequently cold in Bethlehem at this time of the year. For information, telephone (450) 458-1945.