Immersive Return to Bethlehem returns in Buncombe County, offering holiday experience with nativity marketplace and community support

Return to Bethlehem once again illuminated Buncombe County this holiday season, offering a vibrant celebration of the nativity story. Produced by the Asheville-Buncombe Community Christian Ministry (ABCCM), the event took place at Groce United Methodist Church on Tunnel Road. This immersive experience brought the biblical narrative to life through a recreated Bethlehem marketplace, with over 50 volunteers contributing to the production.

The event serves as a heartfelt expression of gratitude from ABCCM to the community, which has shown increasing need over the past year. Reverend Scott Rogers, executive director of ABCCM, shared the challenges faced by the region, including a rise in homelessness due to a recent hurricane, inflation, and food cost increases. He noted that the ministry has seen a doubling of the average number of people seeking food assistance and a 25 percent increase in medical ministry requests.

ABCCM plays a vital role in supporting dozens of churches across western North Carolina and the local veteran community. The organization’s efforts reflect a commitment to practical neighbor-love, aligning with the biblical call to care for the vulnerable. As Matthew 25:35 reminds us, “I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink,” the ministry’s work embodies this spirit of service.

Return to Bethlehem ran from Friday, December 12, through Sunday, December 14, with varying hours each day. The event provided a space for community members to engage with the Christmas story, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. It also offered an opportunity for visitors to reflect on the importance of compassion and generosity, as highlighted in Galatians 6:10, which encourages believers to “do good to all people, especially to those who are of the household of faith.”

The production’s success underscores the power of collective effort in addressing local needs. By bringing people together through a shared experience, Return to Bethlehem exemplifies how community support can make a tangible difference. As Hebrews 13:16 reminds us, “Do not forget to do good and to share your wealth with those in need, for by such sacrifices the worshipers are made perfect,” the event serves as a reminder of the importance of such acts.

This year’s Return to Bethlehem not only celebrated the season but also highlighted the ongoing need for compassion and support in Buncombe County. The event’s organizers and volunteers continue to demonstrate the value of service, offering hope and assistance to those in need. Their efforts reflect a deep commitment to the principles of mercy and justice, embodying the spirit of the Christmas message.

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