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| The Bethlehem Inn"In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered." - Luke 2:1 "What a great evening we had at The Bethlehem Inn. It was a magical gift to the church from the hospitality, to the music, to the acting to the food (oh my, the food!). I hope all the folks involved know how touched we all were by the experience." - a grateful guest Dear Friends: I am pleased to announce that the Bethlehem Inn has earned a five-star rating. The staff was excellent (and full of personality). The food was delectable and abundant. The traveling mandolin group and the Bethlehem Band were outstanding. And, innkeepers Eli and Sarah Merriman even found a way to accommodate some late arrivals who needed a private and clean place to rest for the night. What a joy it was to hear the first-hand account of the shepherds of the angels filling the night sky with song. What an honor to get a glimpse of baby Jesus, Mary his mother, and Joseph his protector. What fun to be together on such a special night. Several people deserve our thanks and recognition. First among them are production manger Peter H., director Joan F., assistant director Lori L., and maestro of the meal Mike F. The whole endeavor rested on the shoulders of these four. They each handled their jobs beautifully. Mike, Peter and Louis P. decorated the tables. Marty T. created the stable. Russ S. made the most of his musical connections and conducting talent. The volunteers of the kitchen crew were the unsung heroes. A group of Mike's friends and fellow workers from the Hotel Del Coronado were joined by Al H., Harrell H., Malea S., Emily D., Hope A. (Saturday night) and Christine K., Brenda B., Ken H., and Mary H. (Sunday night). Susana B. T. worked both nights! The clean up after each meal was monumental; hurray for the dish washers! The cast, led by Dave L. and Susie V., was absolutely delightful and gave the whole experience its sparkle. Hats off to Evan D., Craig R., Vicki T., Brenda B., Michaella B. B., Louis P., Ken B., Rusty T., Rachel O., and Alek T. Finally, of course, thanks to box office coordinator Cheryl H. who managed to sell all the tickets. The highlight for me was the opportunity to feel a little bit like I was "really there." The innkeepers asked us whether we were willing to have our camels and donkeys share space in the stable with Mary and Joseph. The shepherds were radiant with wonder and excitement; I began to be filled with awe. The staff members of the inn were ordinary people, eager to please and eager to be praised. Imagine, Jesus being born among people just like this... people just like us. I pray that the "reality" of Jesus touches each of your lives some time during this Christmas season which lasts until January 6, "Three Kings Day," when the magi arrive to honor and worship the child. It will be good if we can enter the new year with a strong sense of God's love in our hearts. We need that love and light to lead us forward. Peace be with you, Pastor April |
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