Published January 07. 2025 01:00PM
Colorful costumes and live animals filled the Bethlehem Rose Garden for the 45th annual live Bethlehem Christmas Pageant’s two performances Dec. 14 and 15.
The pageant began with a musical prelude performed by the Chancel Choir of Bethany United Church of Christ, directed by Susan Denninger Wright.
Live Bethlehem Christmas Pageant President David M. Landis welcomed the audience. William Schellhaas served as the narrator.
As the Christmas Story unfolded, the actors lip-synced their parts, while David M. Landis, Heidi Landis, Karen Schadle and Larry Kirk provided their voices.
The costumes were beautiful. The animals, sheep, goats, ponies, a donkey and camels were both impressive and adorable. The animals were brought in by Blue Ridge Farm of Bath and Kafka Farm of Watchum, N.J.
In addition to the choir, animals and narrator, more than 50 volunteers participated in the pageant, bringing the Christmas Story to life.
The Live Bethlehem Christmas Pageant is a nonprofit organization. Tax deductible donations may be made by mailing donations to Live Bethlehem Christmas Pageant, P.O. Box 263, Bethlehem, PA 18016-0263
PRESS PHOTO BY LANI GOINSThe bandstand in the Rose Garden is transformed into the stage for the Nativity tableau.
King Herod (Nathan Rathmell) and the High Priest (Alan Baker) consider what to do about the threat to Herod’s authority.
The camels follow the Three Kings as they journey to visit the Christ Child.
Soldiers (Eddie Rathmell and Jordan Baker) protect the shelter of King Herod and the High Priest
Amanda Carey, Linken and Hazel Perry and Missy the pup came to see the Live Bethlehem Christmas Pageant.
Villager Corey Tancin with his hen in a basket.
A tent for donations and hot cocoa and treats were popular with the audience.
Rinna rides Applejack the pony. The ponies rode at the front of the procession of the Three Kings.
Mary and Joseph (Sarah Callahan Bennet and Isaiah Kohnlein).
