The Freedom Church Community Christmas Program, "The Road to Bethlehem," under the direction of Sharon Walker and Pastor Mark Kinkle, was presented Dec. 16 at the Freedom Christian Church. A cast of 44 servants, from both the Freedom Christian Church and the Freedom Methodist Church, brought the Christmas story to life.

The presentation began with a pre-show where volunteers offered song and speech while those in the program could dress and prepare. The program ended with old-fashioned caroling around the Christmas tree on Main Street and hot chocolate or cider and cookies were served. A celebration was had by one and all.

"All glory and thanks to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for giving us a great story through 'The Road to Bethlehem' Christmas Program. We thank Jesus for His gift of love. We also thank Jesus for his 44 servants who implemented this great story," Kinkle said. "We also praise the Lord for the 49-plus people who came to watch and sing with us in the church and joined us downtown at the Christmas tree for caroling and refreshments. Glory to God!"

TOP LEFT: The Three Kings are played by Joe Jessup, Bruce Stansbury and Casey Luddington. TOP RIGHT: King Herod (Todd Finley) schemes and plots while his servant Paulo (Tony Hope) listens. MIDDLE RIGHT: "Joy to the World" – Singing carols around the Christmas tree is part of the Freedom Church Community Christmas Program. BOTTOM LEFT: "Silent Night" – The Freedom churches carol on Main Street. BOTTOM RIGHT: Elizabeth (Jenell Ruetlinger) tells Mary (Vanessa Gerloff) that she is blessed with the child of God and not to be afraid. She then sings "Mary Did You Know?"