Take A Walk Through Bethlehem In Tulsa

By Rick Wells, The News On 6

TULSA, OK -- How'd you like to view Christmas a little differently this year?  Tulsa's Christview Christian Church began its annual Bethlehem Walk Thursday night.

The Bethlehem Walk is a live, interactive nativity presentation that takes the visitors back in time.

"Last year was our biggest year - we had 2,400 people go through," said Paula Scott.

More than 200 church members are in costume each night of the production: townspeople, angels, wise men and a tax collector. The wise men have real beards -hard to be a wise man without a beard.

"The first of November is when we start pulling the costumes of people who have signed up," said Judy Ethridge.

The church owns its own costumes, including a dozen or so Roman soldiers.

What does a Roman Soldier in December wear under his costume?

"Sweats, red sweats," an actor answered.

Everyone who attends becomes a family member who must travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Visitors begin by trying to rent a donkey.

As you walk, along the way you'll meet soldiers, a tax collector, lepers, beggars, wise men, and shepherds. You'll hear of the birth of a mysterious baby in a manger.

There are warming fires, but you'll be outside for 45 minutes, so bundle up.

This is the 11th year of the production; it's their Christmas gift to the community.

"If you saw it live and interacted with it, then it's a part of you," said Paula Scott.

The Bethlehem Walk runs from December 3 - 6. For scheduling purposes, they'd like visitors to make reservations.