Simpsonwood UMC Hosts Annual 'Walk Through Bethlehem'

Submitted article

The “Bethlehem Church” is at it again!

Many know Simpsonwood United Methodist Church in Peachtree Corners, Georgia for their Christmas outreach effort each year, Walk Through Bethlehem.

This year marks 23 years that the local church has been sharing the story of the bright star shining over Christ’s birth, with thousands who travel to the city to attend.
The year 2014 marks a wonderful history of community at its best. Over 300 volunteers from Simpsonwood church work tirelessly each year to share the event gift with both local residents and those who travel miles to experience.

Many families have raised children serving every year in the various Bethlehem shops, acting as a Roman guards, shepherds, wisemen, angels, Mary and Joseph, and welcoming travelers who want to witness the live re-enactment of the Christmas story.

“We cherish the memories made from our family being part of Bethlehem each year,” explains Lora King, church member and event planner. “The yearly effort is woven into the fabric of who we are as a family and as a community. Seeing those we know and meeting new faces, making the connections, pondering the story - all during the busyness of the season, is a calming bright spot. It is something that you never tire of - the joy is bountiful.”
Despite the recent sale of the Simpsonwood Conference and Retreat Center property, the annual event will go on in full form this year including the very popular live camels!

Bethlehem event location site since the beginning, the Retreat Center was formerly owned by the United Methodist Conference and has been sold to the City of Peachtree Corners and Gwinnett County.
The community is invited to attend the event this weekend — Fri, Sat and Sun evenings at 4511 Jones Bridge Circle, directly across the street from Simpsonwood UMC.

Parking and admission are free with canned food and cash donations accepted for the Norcross Cooperative Ministry.

For more information on the event, visit the Simpsonwood United Methodist Church website at www.simpsonwoodumc.org.

(Photos: Courtesy of Simpsonwood United Methodist Church)