Have you ever longed to visit the birthplace of Jesus? To walk through the ancient city of Bethlehem? To visit the shepherds on the hills? For many of us that is an impossible dream, not only because of the cost, but also because of the conflict between Jew and Palestinian today.
In early December each year, the Kelso-Longview Community Seventh-day Adventist Church recreates the village of Bethlehem - a FREE journey back in time. Join us as we trudge for days through 
inhospitable country inhabited by robbers and lepers. It takes several days to reach Bethlehem you know. But Caesar has decreed that everyone must register in their ancestral hometown.
Though the journey is long and tiresome, once you reach the city gates you will feel the energy within. The harsh Roman guards will remind you of the oppressive times. Over 150 people in period costume create an authentic feel to the city. You will see the poverty of the beggars and hear the story of the promised Messiah to come. You will experience the shop keepers pressure “sales” of their
various goods - jewelry, camel dung, pottery, spices and more. You will see sheep, goats, donkeys, and Roman guards on horses. Gizmo, our favorite camel, is always a hit. You will see townspeople huddle around warm fires as they gossip about their neighbors. You will "pay" your taxes to the pompous tax collector, Abner. You will join the shepherds as they hear the angel’s announcement and run to see the baby Jesus. Finally, you will ponder the true meaning of Christmas as you gaze on the Holy Child.
This is an outdoor event which takes about 20 - 25 minutes. Dress for the weather. About half the time is under cover. To help preserve the ancient atmosphere, no flash photography is allowed. 
Each year six to seven thousand people join us on this FREE journey back in time to the ancient city of Bethlehem. We have many local community musical groups that provide free entertainment while you wait to go on your Journey.
After you experience Journey to Bethlehem, you will want to experience the rest of the story in Journey to the Cross. This is an Easter musical with a cast of over 120 people in costume and an angelic choir of over 50. Plan now to attend this 1 hour, indoor event Easter weekend.