Those driving past University United Methodist Church at 2000 S. Locust St. between 5pm and 8pm on December 19th and 20th may slow down when they see a flock of sheep and angel choir out on the church lawn.
While the choir and sheep are important parts of the church’s traditional “Advent Journey” gift to the community, they also offer everyone an invitation to stop and enjoy this free presentation. During the half-hour journey, first-century Judea comes alive as visitors walk through a series of scenes depicting the Nativity story.
Laura Wells and Melly Locke, Advent Journey Directors, have assembled a cast of over 100 costumed characters of all ages. A busy marketplace with artisans such as potters, woodworkers, spice and silk merchants, and beadmakers greet visitors with hands-on activities as they wait to begin the Journey. In the marketplace, visitors sign up to be part of groups, or tribes, who enjoy vignettes from the gospel story together. Tours leave every five minutes and last approximately half an hour.
Among the vignettes are the Annunciation, with Mary and the Angel Gabriel; Mary’s visit to her cousin Elizabeth; refreshments in the inn; a visit with the shepherds and their sheep; closing with a live Nativity scene in the church sanctuary.
Admission to the Journey is free, and visitors may see it as many times as they wish. All are welcome!
Information from University United Methodist Church