Bethlehem Revisited - First United Methodist Church

History

Since the early 70's it has been a tradition at the First United Methodist Church of Coral Springs to perform a live Nativity at Christmas time.
• In 1993 an idea was discussed to try something different, something bigger, something we could share with the entire community.
• The thought was why not recreate Bethlehem as it may have appeared at the time of Christ's birth? Thus, Bethlehem Revisited was born.
• Hundreds of hours were devoted to studying the Bible and archeological finds of the time period in order to make sure that our recreation is as authentic as possible.
• In addition, customs and politics of the time were carefully analyzed to aide in developing short dialogs that cast members could study. This enabled the participants to speak spontaneously using the dialect of the time.

• Our first year of Bethlehem Revisited was very small, only open 2 nights with approximately 600 visitors.
• In 1997 we had expanded to 4 nights with 5,200 in attendance. With each passing year we grew in size and scope.
• By 2004, we were open 5 nights and accommodated 9,800 visitors.
• An amazing 12,200 people attended in 2005.
• Today the planning for Bethlehem starts in July and the construction begins in October.
• We are always researching and adding new and exciting elements to the Bethlehem Revisited experience.
• This project is made possible by the grace of God, and hundreds of volunteers donating hundreds of hours In His Service.

"For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord." Luke 2:11