A BETHLEHEM CHRISTMAS
In 1950, the Rev. John W. Lancaster came to serve his first pastorate at First Presbyterian Church in Bay City. That Christmas, at the new minister's suggestion, the church produced a "Living Christmas Tableau" using real people and live animals, and this special project has continued annually to the present time. Originally, the tableau was held on three consecutive nights, but has since been held on two nights each December. Regardless of how bitter the weather may get, the tableau goes on as scheduled; only a deluge or freezing temperatures can cause a night's cancellation.
A young adult class organized in the 1950's, known as the 3M's (Mr, Mrs, & Miss), soon assumed the major production of the tableau, but always the entire congregation has been encouraged to be involved. The church's Worship Committee was in charge of the tableau for many years. In recent years, in keeping with the Christian outreach to the community that is at the heart of this endeavor, the Communication, Outreach, Missions, & Evangelism Committee has led the annual effort.
Volunteers look forward to assuming the various characters in the scenes depicting Jesus' birth: shepherds, wise men, angels, villagers, and, of course, Mary and Joseph. These real characters in appropriate settings, with special lighting and music, create a beautiful nativity panorama that spreads for an entire block on the church lawn. Other volunteers populate the background, handle the costumes, prepare food, set up props, and greet visitors. Live animals have included sheep, cattle, goats, and donkeys. Procuring and caring for these animals makes for tall tales that are handed on to each generation
As for the wise men's camels, they have been constructed of wood and papier-mâché by church members and youth. These 3 camels are brought out of storage for each year's event. As for the angel, only young, agile ladies assume that role - it means a climb to the church roof.
On the occasion of the 50th production of the tableau in December 1999, the traditional tableau of still figures was expanded to depict the small village of Bethlehem as it might have been on the first Christmas, with townfolk moving about the marketplace and observing the wonders of that special time. The tableau then came to be called "A Bethlehem Christmas."
This annual event is a time of close Christian fellowship for those who participate, and helps to create the true spirit of the Christmas celebration within our congregation. After a stint of standing out in the December air, everyone involved gathers in the church kitchen and Robbins Hall to enjoy food, drinks and fellowship.
A Bay City tradition since 1950, First Presbyterian Church offers this production as a Christmas gift to the community.