Return to Bethlehem (RTB) is a time-honored tradition in Grace United Methodist’s history. It is fun for all ages to walk through and be taken through a time machine back into the days of Caesar’s reign, as well as how Jesus came to be.
Christi McClintok, a cast member in Grace’s Return to Bethlehem, was the town beggar in the production. McClintok states, “It’s a fun role, but it’s physically demanding with lots of running and hiding.”
McClintok has since taken the role of an Angel on the Hill, speaking to Shepherds and telling them not to fear, as is a part of the Christmas story.
Telling the Shepherds not to fear is not her only favorite part of this role but is accompanied by a “beautiful view of the whole town, [which] you can’t help but feel amazing as you say, ‘Fear Not, I bring you good news of great joy!’”
McClintok continues participation in the event each year it occurs, and encourages others to do so, stating “there is nothing like being a part of it.”
Danielle Whitlock, another volunteer with the event, plays the Inn Keeper.
Whitlock states that her favorite part of the role is “[being able] to be in the village with all the sounds, sights, and smells of Bethlehem, but also speak to the travelers as they make their way out of Bethlehem.”
At the end of each night, all of the volunteers meet at the nativity scene.
“We gather to hear about special moments of the night and get the quest count from the census taker. Finally, we end the evening with a Christmas hymn,” says Whitlock.
Debbie Yano calls it “a gift to the community given by Grace members.” She says that every part of the gift and every scene has a purpose in telling the story of Jesus’ birth. Debbie says that “being a part of that is special to me and gives me a sense of peace amongst the hectic Christmas season.”
Yano played a part in RTB three times before she took over the casting coordinator position in 2012. Ever since then she has helped fill every role, ensuring the event is able to take place.
An immersive experience full of many community volunteers, the event unites the city of North Augusta through a celebration of the holiday season. To learn more about Grace UMC, you can visit their website at https://gotgraceumc.org/.
Pictured here is Grace UMC's reenactment of the nativity scene in the story of the birth of Jesus Christ.
Photo Credit: Emma Carter
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