Delivering joy to the world!--Live nativity steers travelers to Christ
In Midwest City, every ministry and age group of Wickline UMC (Church of the Vine) is being challenged to venture out and exalt the Lord. One adult Sunday School class, the Seekers, proposed a drive-through live nativity. Dianne Goodloe, a class leader, stated, "It was time to do something innovative and touch more people." Named "Wickline’s Road to Bethlehem," performances were held Dec. 7-9, from 6 to 8:30 nightly. Almost 200 vehicles drove through the displays, with more than 550 people in those vehicles. Senior Pastor Eric Snyder said, "The response was so encouraging to all of us at Wickline. It highlights the passion and commitment this congregation has for pursuing the mission God has given to us." The event was developed through seven planning teams—costumes, scenes, music, traffic, actor recruitment, promotion, and hospitality—with more than 200 Wickline members actively involved in some aspect. Seekers class members took primary responsibility, chairing the various planning teams. As vehicles drove through, their passengers saw six major scenes of the Christmas story re-enacted. As the journey concluded, those in each vehicle received a Christmas card from the congregation, with information about events and ministries Wickline offers. Goodloe said, "We learned a lot. I expect it to just get bigger and better. People inside the church and those outside feel it was a really positive thing." Rev. Snyder stated, "Our intention is for Wickline’s ‘Road to Bethlehem’ to be an annual outreach event that grows each year. It is an example of what God’s church can do when they put their minds to something and have the determination to do the necessary work to get it done. "Next year I’m angling for real camels." |
