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“Walking to Bethlehem” has become a favourite part of their Christmas celebration for hundreds of Hudson/Saint-Lazare families and their friends. This year, the folks at Hudson Community Baptist Church are putting on the outdoor production for the fifth time, and have added a second weekend of presentations to accommodate the large numbers that are expected.

The re-enactment of the Christmas story takes place outdoors, and the grounds of the local church are the perfect setting for the shepherds, angels, Roman centurions, Wise Men, and other characters that visitors meet along the way. With its out-buildings housing the Bethlehem market, the “no room in the inn” Inn, and the stable where the baby Jesus was born, it’s as if the property was especially designed for this wonderful presentation.

The premise has guests becoming part of a family that is headed to Bethlehem to be counted and to pay its taxes (proof that not much has changed over the centuries!). With their shekels tightly clenched in their hands, they experience the sights and sounds of life as it was over 2,000 years ago. Music is an important part of the evening, and from the angels who fill the night sky with their ethereal voices, to the sounds of Mary singing to her wee Babe, family members are often transfixed by its beauty. Live animals delight little children and their parents alike as they see sheep, donkeys, chickens and other livestock along the way.

Because the Walk is staged during the holiday season, it has faced its share of challenges from the winter weather. Cold temperatures, ice storms and other “surprises” have made their mark in the past. Again this year, the Walk will take be staged in late November and early December, in an effort to take advantage of warmer weather. Also, should there be a wait for the next presentation to begin; guests will be able to stay inside the cozy church building as their family group is formed. With over 3,000 visitors last year, and 4,000 expected this season, the Walk will take place over two weekends to ensure that everyone will have the opportunity to enjoy the wonder of Christmas in Bethlehem.

Hudson Community Baptist Church’s Pastor Doug Connelly and his wife Willa were thrilled last year as they enjoyed the Walk for the first time. This year, they look forward to greeting visitors as they travel to Bethlehem and enjoy free refreshments after their journey. Almost everyone in the congregation participates in some way, with over 100 cast members and 50 voices. Look for Doug and Willa in the Christmas Café where their happy smiles will make you feel right at home.