The town of Harman will become Bethlehem for a day as the Harman Presbyterian Church will be presenting the very first Live Nativity in that area on Dec. 20.
Starting at 6 p.m., a miniature version of Mary, Joseph and their donkey will begin their search through town for a place to stay. Mary will be played by 4-year-old Kendra Waybright and Joseph will be played by 5-year-old Kade Mallow. The donkey is none other than "Roscoe the Miniature Donkey" from Barnyard Babies Petting Zoo in Canaan Valley.
Upon arriving at Harman, Mary and Joseph will begin searching the town for a place to stay. Linda Butler, owner of Cooper's Store in Harman, said, "I think this is a great idea and am happy to support community events."
Those interested in a visit from the trio may stop at Cooper's Store to pick up a free sign inviting them to check for vacancies at their "inn." Signs should be placed near the street so Mary and Joseph won't miss it as they randomly make the journey to the Harman Presbyterian Church, which is where the stable scene will take place around 6:30 p.m.
The community is invited to come and watch from the street as the events of the Nativity unfold. For safety, the street will be blocked off during the production.
As Mary and Joseph arrive at the "stable," they will be greeted by other animals provided by Laurel Fork Farm.
"All the goats are very excited to be participating in such a great event," laughs Marsha Louk, owner of Laurel Fork Farm and producer of the Bethlehem event. "I hope that this production will remind people of what Christmas is all about: the birth of our savior Jesus. I think it will be fun for everyone."
The live nativity will be a musical event that will tell the story of Jesus' birth through song, while church members act out the events. Hot chocolate and other refreshments will be served in the church.
"I believe in the true meaning of Christmas and hope that this event stirs up the community to take more interest in church and community activities," Harman Mayor Jerry Teter said.
"I will help in any way that I can and will definitely have a sign in my yard for Mary and Joseph," said town resident Ruth Cooper. "I think it is a wonderful idea for the community and the general public."
Another resident, Rebecca Vance, said, "It's a wonderful opportunity not only for Harman but the whole community to participate in such a wonderful production that will share the true meaning of Christmas."
So for those who live in Harman and would like to be visited by Mary, Joseph and their donkey, get pick up a free sign from Cooper's Store before Dec. 20 and place it in the front yard near the street. For those who don't live in Harman but want to see the production, mark Dec. 20 on the calendar and line the streets of Harman around 6 p.m. Keep an eye out for a little trio of weary travelers making their way through town to the "makeshift" stable in front of the Harman Presbyterian Church. Fill the street in front of the church around 6:30 p.m. to get the best view of Mary and Joseph arriving at the "stable." Mary and Joseph will be followed by shepherds, wise men and a little drummer boy.
For more information or to help out with the production, e-mail harmanpresbyterianchurch@yahoo.com or visit www.harmanpresbyterianchurch.com.
