More than 65 children and adults took a step back in time on December 12 and travelled to ancient Bethlehem to try to taste, see, feel and touch what daily life was like when Jesus was born, at the International School São Lourenço in Almancil.
There were shops and activities for all ages as All Saints Anglican Church recreated the hustle and bustle of the Bethlehem marketplace to retell the story of the birth of Jesus.
While the Roman soldiers ensured the census information was collected and scribed, guests dressed in Bible costume enjoyed Hebrew songs and dances, lessons in ancient bread making techniques, a visit to the toy emporium to make a traditional Roman snakes and ladders game and made Roman wreaths to celebrate the winter season.
ROMAN TRADITIONS
Also on offer for participants were lessons in making Roman children’s jewellery, scroll and scribe making in Latin, and recreating the host of angels who appeared to tell of the birth of Christ.
All this plus traditional Hebrew food, a seasonal film
-[44725].res.jpg "Father Joe Wingo dressed as a Roman soldier with his wife Bethany and daughter Lily.") Father Joe Wingo dressed as a Roman soldier with his wife Bethany and daughter Lily. |
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and the highlight for many, a visit to the stable to talk with Mary and Joseph just after Jesus had been born.
“This occasion was a joyous and joyful start to our celebrations for Christmas,” said Father Joe Wingo, lead priest of All Saints Anglican Church.
“It’s a perfect balance to our more traditional carol and worship services and a great way of sharing this important story with people who would not usually come to our church. A huge thank you to São Lourenço International School for their generosity in allowing us to use their premises,” he added.
For more information about All Saints Anglican Church, please visit the website, available in English, at www.allsaintsalgarve.org
