Video: Live Bethlehem Village

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COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI) Instead of taking a trip to the mall this holiday season, why not go back to the town where it all began? First Baptist Church in Columbus is bring Bethlehem to the 21st century in their First Christmas reenactment.

“Back in the book of Isaiah they talk about the birth of a child that’s going to be the king so we think that might happen this weekend,” said Bethlehem resident Obadiah.

The people of Bethlehem have heard rumors from nearby shepherds that a savior has been born.
“I’m very excited, very hopeful. We just have to wait and see,” said local potter Jerusia.

After years of Roman rule, the Jewish people are ready for a change. The towns newest arrival could mean great things for the people of Bethlehem.
“Anything to get the oppression of the Romans off our back. The Romans are very oppressive to the Jewish people,” said Obadiah.

“We are the blacksmiths here in Bethlehem. We do all the blacksmith work, iron work here in Bethlehem. I work with my father Obadiah and brother. He’s coming in with his wife and they’re going to help with us,” said Shamgar, a member of the tribe of Judah.

The town of David is complete with live animals, a pottery station, and of course a stable. First Baptist Church has been recreating the First Christmas for over a decade.

The First Christmas village will be open December 13th-15th from 6 to 8.