Walk to Bethlehem

It was a dream of Rev. Henry H. Hall to have a Walk to Bethlehem, to make the little town of Bethlehem come alive in North Central Wisconsin. So in the fall of 1998, his dream came true. Sponsored by The United Methodist Churches of Medford, Rib Lake and Dorchester, more than 120 people became involved in bringing this special Christmas gift to life. A committee was formed to organize the sets, make costumes and recruit actors. Some participated in a prayer group to specifically pray for the success of the Walk to Bethlehem. Others helped with financial needs. The plans kept growing -- sets were organized, actors got their costumes and their lines memorized, transforming the Fellowship hall, Narthex and sanctuary of the Medford United Methodist Church into the little town of Bethlehem for the performances scheduled in December. Open to the public, over 1,200 people from the surrounding area (50 mile radius) had a chance to see what Bethlehem was like at the time Christ was born.

Over the past few years, this became an ecumenical Christmas gift to the community and surrounding area. Members from The United Methodist Churches of Medford and Dorchester, St. Paul's Lutheran Church, ELCA, Medford, and The United Church Of Christ, Medford, were part of the planning process and performances. Area ministers (some retired) helped as biblical guides through Bethlehem.

A Bethlehem home.

Each year, the Walk to Bethlehem was slightly different. Some things remained the same while some things were changed to improve the experience. But the theme never changed. The message that Jesus Christ was born on Christmas day will always be the same. Jesus is the reason for the season.

Check out the photo page to view photos of past Walk to Bethlehem performances. (More Photos)