Back To Bethlehem

 Saturday night we headed down to Canton, Georgia to Hopewell Baptist Church to see their Back to Bethlehem presentation.  We had heard from several people that it was well worth the drive, and they were right. 

 The town is surrounded by a high wall and we had to stand in a long line to enter.  When we reached the city gate, Roman soldiers stood above us and barked down orders.  Sawyer was a little nervous about their swords and loud voices, but it made him more excited to get inside the city.  

 After we entered the city there were people dressed in costumes milling around the city with their animals which were available for the kids to pet.  There were street vendors showing their goods and trades, which included basket weaving, bread ovens, brick making and lots of others.  Several tables had food that we could taste and spices we could smell.  After enjoying checking out the city we found our way to the Inn and were led back around to the stable.  In the midst of a live donkey and goats, were Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus.  We watched as the shepherds and wise men entered the scene and the angels began to sing.  The kids loved it!  Mary brought baby Jesus by and let all the kids take a peek at him.  He seemed to be getting tired of all his visitors... 

We didn't get a lot of pictures, but you can watch a video about the presentation here on Hopewell's website.  I would definitely recommend this event if you live in the area, just make sure you dress warm.