Bethlehem Walk returns for its seventh season beginning Wednesday, December 1st, 2010. The interactive outdoor drama where guest experience first century Bethlehem continues through Sunday, December 5th. As you enter the city, allow the sights, sounds and smells to carry you to a period of time that changed the world. Journey through the heart of the city to the marketplace that is bustling with activity from over a dozen authentic shops; enjoy samples from the baker's shop, see the blacksmith at work making crucifixion nails, marvel at the potter's crafts and listen for the rumor of a king's birth from excited townspeople.
Since its inaugural season in 2003, Bethlehem Walk has thrilled and emotionally touched thousands of visitors from across the Commonwealth. Nearly 6,000 travelers toured Bethlehem the first year. Last December, host church Salem Baptist in Crozier, VA partnered with eight area churches to reach over 7,500 people with this interactive Gospel drama that takes visitors through scenes ranging from the entrance of the Savior into the world to an empty Jewish tomb.
Bethlehem Walk is located at Salem's Broad Street campus in Goochland County, VA just 6 miles west of Short Pump. The tour is outside and takes approximately 45 minutes. Dress appropriately for the weather. The rough terrain is not suitable for wheelchairs; however we do have "chariots" to accommodate you. Tours are available for the hearing impaired and also in Spanish. Please contact the Salem Baptist Church office at 804-784-4171 for details on these special tour times. Admission is free and parking is available on the property. Shuttle service is provided to and from satellite parking locations. Donations to help defray the costs of construction and maintenance are accepted.
Bethlehem Walk 2010 is Salem's holiday “gift” to the community. Many families will take their children to see Santa Claus at the mall this year. Bethlehem Walk is a way to experience the true meaning of Christmas.
Event Schedule
Wednesday, December 1, 2010 . . . 6 – 9 PM
Thursday, December 2, 2010 . . . 6 – 9 PM
Friday, December 3, 2010 . . . 6 – 10 PM
Saturday, December 4, 2010 . . . 4 – 9 PM
Sunday, December 5, 2010 . . . 3 – 8 PM
Media are welcomed to attend a walk through for filming, photographs and interviews Sunday, November 28, 2010 at 6:00 PM or may attend the Wednesday evening tour session with permission. Please contact Greg Waters at 804-784-4171 for additional information.
With the conclusion of Bethlehem Walk last December, it is clear that again our Lord has richly blessed this ministry with many new souls for the Kingdom and lives renewed to service for Jesus. Read some of the comments from among the 7,500+ plus that braved snow, rain and 25 degree temperatures for last year’s event. Over 120 people indicated a decision to accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior and nearly 500 indicated a desire to rededicate their lives to the Lord.
Bethlehem Walk Comments
"Love the tour. It felt like we were really there. I'm glad everyone played their part well. In a world like this, we need to be reminded of our Savior and this kind of reminder brings hope in everyone's life. Thank you all so much for the experience."
"Yes, Yes, Yes, Yes, Yes! This was fantastic!! Thank you so much for your time and effort. I am so proud to have this in Richmond."
"Fantastic—this was incredible. I have been to several places around the world and churches in different cultures, but I have never experienced anything like this. God bless all of you."
"Wow! Where do I start? This is my first time and it was such a blessing. I'm still in the beginning of the Bible so I'm not familiar with all of the stories. I felt God's presence. I didn't feel lost or confused. My tour was led by amazing guides. The Pastor's piece was powerful. The people in the refreshment area were fantastic. It was great to be in a sea of people who love God. It's obvious that this project was initiated by God. I look forward to returning on Sunday and in years to come. Thank you!"
"This was quite fantastic—very thoughtful, authentic down to the last detail. All the way to the serviettes (napkin in American—I'm from Scandinavia). The time and effort, people and animals, ...are they volunteers? How did you do it??? If people don't go to church, well then the church must come to the people—well done."
(From a preteen whose address is in Hawaii and sometimes goes to church). "Bethlehem is SOOO rocking! I want to spend every day of my life here—I can't leave!! They should go on Broadway and I would see it every day because I'm obsessed with it."
"Thank you for loving Jesus and obeying His call to do this. My heart has been renewed, changed. When Jesus was on the cross, I was on His mind. Thank you for ministering to a Christian of 15 years. I am refreshed by the Holy Spirit to go and tell and teach others about Jesus. Thank you so very much for your tremendous sacrifice. My life has been truly changed."
"I really enjoyed this! I came 2 years ago. I was about 14. I knew this was what I needed to see. Before this, I never really understood what happened, but when I came to this, I understood it perfectly. I thank God every day to have an opportunity like this."
"Very nicely done. A great outreach. The chariots were very welcome. They made it possible for my 92 year old father. Thanks, God bless."
"We were thrilled to see your church reaching out to your community and proclaiming the truth. Thanks! May the Lord continue to use you all."
BETHLEHEM WALK FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ’s)
1. When is Bethlehem Walk?
Bethlehem Walk returns beginning Wednesday, December 1st and continues through Sunday December 5th, 2010.
2. Where is Bethlehem Walk held?
Bethlehem Walk is located at Salem’s Broad Street Campus (Route 250) in Goochland County, VA just 6 miles west of Short Pump. Traveling eastbound in I-64 take the Oilville/Goochland Exit 167- turn right onto Route 617, take a left at the light onto Route 250 and travel east 7 miles to the site. If traveling west on I-64 take the Rockville/Manakin Exit 173 onto Route 623, take a left at the light and go approximately 2/3 of a mile and turn right onto Route 250 at the T-intersection light. Proceed west approximately 3 miles to Bethlehem Walk.
3. Is there a cost to visit Bethlehem Walk?
It’s free – our Christmas gift to you. But any donations will be gladly accepted, which we will use to cover the costs of the event.
4. Where do I park?
Parking is available at the Bethlehem Walk site and at the shuttle lot at the West End Church of the Nazarene. ALL parking at authorized Bethlehem Walk lots is FREE. We do not sanction, assume any liability or provide shuttle service for any parking that requires payment. Any paid parking is done without the approval or authorization of Bethlehem Walk and its participating churches and none of the funds collected goes to Bethlehem Walk. Guests that park at unsanctioned alternatives assume ALL risks.
Because of the massive response to Bethlehem Walk, parking lots fill up rapidly. To avoid traffic and delays, if you plan to visit Bethlehem more than 2 hours after it opens, go to the satellite lot at the
West End Church of the Nazarene. If that lot is also full, please proceed to the Bethlehem Walk site.
Directions to the West End Church of the Nazarene shuttle lot:
From the East: Take I-64 west to the Oilville (Exit-167) exit. Go to the end of the ramp and turn left. Go approximately 1/2 mile to the light. Turn left on RT 250 east. Go approximately 4 miles and West End Church of the Nazarene will be on the right. Look for the Church sign.
From the West: Take I-64 east to the Oilville (Exit-167) exit. Go to the end of the ramp and turn right. Go approximately 1/2 mile to the light. Turn left on RT 250 east. Go approximately 4 miles and West End Church of the Nazarene will be on the right. Look for the Church sign.
Shuttles provided by Winn Bus Lines will take you to the event. Waiting times from the time you arrive until you enter the city are typically 90 to 120 minutes. Feel free to bring your ipod or a book to pass the time. 5. What is the history of Bethlehem Walk?
Since its inaugural season in 2003, Bethlehem Walk has thrilled and emotionally touched thousands of visitors from across the Commonwealth and the nation. The 2008 production welcomed visitors from across the country (Southern California) and across the Atlantic ocean from nations like Germany. Nearly 6,000 visitors toured the city the first year and last December, this ministry touched over 10,000 people. Over the brief six year history of Bethlehem Walk approximately 45,000 people have toured the event and over 700 decisions have been made to accept Christ as Lord and Savior. In that time Bethlehem Walk has become a Richmond Christmas tradition. We certainly hope you will join us and make Bethlehem Walk a traditional part of your family’s Holiday celebrations.
6. Who organizes, plans and coordinates Bethlehem Walk?
Last year, host church Salem Baptist in Crozier, VA partnered with five area churches to reach over 10,000 people with this interactive Gospel drama that takes visitors through scenes ranging from the entrance of the Savior into the world to an empty Jewish tomb. There is a production team that works year-round, planning and preparing. By opening night over one hundred-and-fifty members, cast, crew and support will participate in this year’s event. Bethlehem is constructed on a permanent site at Salem’s Broad Street campus. Throughout the year additional construction, site work, enhancements and repairs are conducted.
7. Can I make reservations?
Because of the huge response to Bethlehem Walk, we cannot offer reserved tours. Tours are given on a first come-first served basis.
8. What should I wear?
This is an outdoor event so dress warmly and be prepared for potentially wet weather; it is frequently cold in Bethlehem at this time of year. Also wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain is uneven.
9. 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 rude, so stick closely to your guide. Once you return to the 21st century you will enjoy refreshments, listen to Christmas music, and chat with some of our cast.
10. Can I be a part of Bethlehem Walk?
Sure!! If you would like to advance beyond a visitor to Bethlehem and become a part of the cast or crew of the Walk 2009, you are more than welcome to participate. Call our Church office (804-784-4171) or email us and we will forward your desire to a walk coordinator who will happily contact you with the details for this year’s event.
11. How can I help promote and/or financially support Bethlehem Walk 2010?
There are flyers and yard signs available at the church. Call in early October to ask for a sign for your yard or flyers to pass out to friends, family, co-workers and neighbors.
Since its inaugural season in 2003, Bethlehem Walk has thrilled, touched and shared the Gospel of Jesus Christ to thousands of visitors from around the world. Over 45,000 tours have been given during that span and we expect 2009 to be our most fruitful season. Bethlehem Walk has become more than a ministry of Salem Baptist Church; it has become a community tradition.
Bethlehem Walk relies on the generous contributions of the members of Salem Baptist Church and our community for its construction and annual maintenance costs. If you, your family or your company would like to be a part of this community outreach please consider becoming a Bethlehem Walk Partner. You can become an annual supporter of Bethlehem Walk by agreeing to make an annual contribution to the Broad Street Building Fund to assist in defraying the costs. For information on becoming a Bethlehem Walk partner please contact sbcpc@comcast.net. Your donation will be used exclusively for construction and annual maintenance costs of Bethlehem Walk. 
CORPORATE PARTNERS
The support and donations of many local companies make Bethlehem Walk possible. From gravel donated by Luckstone, to audio equipment from The Whitlock Group, shuttle bus transportation by Winn Transportation and chicken sandwiches from Chick-fil-a, this event is not possible without the generosity of our local community business leaders!!
THANK YOU ALL FOR MAKING BETHLEHEM WALK A TRULY SPECIAL EVENT
