Walk Through Bethlehem
Frequently Asked Questions for ARBC's Walk Through Bethlehem
1. When is Walk Through Bethlehem?
Friday, Saturday, Sunday December 2nd-4th from 6-9pm
Tours run every 15 minutes from the Activities Building—see map at entrance closest to Savannah Highway.
2. Where is Walk Through Bethlehem held?
Ashley River Baptist Church
1101 Savannah Highway
Charleston, SC 29407
843-408-6591
3. How much does Walk Through Bethlehem cost?
It’s free – our Christmas gift to you.
4. Can I make reservations?
Yes, we prefer that you make reservations. Please call 843-408-6591, and our Walk
Through Bethlehem hostess will reserve your time.
5. How should I dress?
This is an outdoor event so dress warmly; it is frequently quite cold in Bethlehem at this time of year. Also wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven.
6. What type of a reception will I get when I arrive in Bethlehem?
You will be warmly received by the residents of Bethlehem, but some of the Roman Soldiers can be outright hostile, so stick closely to your guide. Upon arrival at ARBC campus, you will be directed to parking by our security personnel. Then you will be directed to our Activity Building where you will affirm your reservation and be assigned to a “tribe,” your tour group. You will then be offered refreshments as you await your tour time.
7. What is the history of “Walk Through Bethlehem?”
(As remembered by Rev. H. S. Yarborough, Jr.)
In 2002, while on a mission choir trip to Ohio, the leaders of our project and I were sitting around the kitchen table at my sister’s home. As our youth were enjoying the pool, she began to tell us about a Christmas event at her church called Bethlehem 1 AD. We listened with interest, and I pondered in my mind the possibility of such at our church. Within a week after returning from the misson, our pastor asked me one morning if we had considered having an outdoor drama, given we had the grounds for such here at ARBC. Amazing, isn’t it? God’s timing is always right! So, Christmas 2002, we had our first experience of Walk Through Bethlehem! This year will be our eighth presentation as a Christmas gift for the greater Charleston community. We hope you will bring your family and friends and begin your Christmas with us celebrating the birth of the Prince of Peace, Jesus, the Messiah!
8. Who plans, sets up, and runs Walk Through Bethlehem?
There is a production team that works from August onwards, planning and preparing. By opening night, over one hundred church members, cast, crew and support will participate in this year’s event.
Bethlehem is constructed over a one month period starting in October. Dozens of people
contribute to the construction of the set, and without all the volunteer help, it would not be possible. The cast has been rehearsing and are thrilled and excited for opening night, December 2!
9. How can I help with Walk Through Bethlehem?
If you want to be part of Walk Through Bethlehem at ARBC in the future, please contact Rev. H.S. Yarborough, Jr. at 843-766-5521 or email him at .
If you have any additional questions, please contact our church office
at 843-766-5521 or email .