Breakdown on Bethlehem Street

Imagine that it's Christmas Eve and you're on your way to the store before the annual candlelight service. Suddenly you find yourself transported back in time to the night of the birth of the Messiah! The places you're used to seeing are all gone; the usual trappings of modern society don't work. And, to top it off, you're placed in a situation where you have to help a young couple deal with having a baby -- with no hospital! Yikes! This imaginative chancel drama for Advent or Christmas will make the members of your congregation think about the night of Jesus' birth in a new way. A variety of ages can be used in the production from young children to older adults. The dialogue can be easily modified with local references. Suggested readings and music are included for use between scenes for additional congregational involvement. Frank Ramirez is the pastor of Everett Church of the Brethren in Everett, Pennsylvania. A graduate of the University of LaVerne and Bethany Theological Seminary, Ramirez is the author of numerous books, articles, and short stories. Frank has been a long-time writer for CSS' online subscription StoryShare. His CSS titles include Gabriel's Horn, The Christmas Star, The Bee Attitudes, Partners in Healing, He Took a Towel, Coming Home, Lectionary Worship Aids series, and A Call to Worship.