HAMLET – Second Baptist Church and its Christian Academy School combined their efforts in hosting a truly extraordinary celebration of the Christmas tradition.
Held earlier this month at the school, “Christmas Through the Eyes of a Child” was the theme, as attendees were treated to a fascinating tour through various Christmas scenes on their “Journey to Bethlehem” trip.
Under the leadership of Christian Academy School Principal Cheryl Lampley, and Church Pastor Chris Hawks, the school and the church teamed together for a mesmerizing presentation that was orchestrated by the school staff, academy students, and members of the church.
Lampley cited Assistant Principal Tina Barnhill and Assistant Pastor Drew Stables, as well as the school’s 23 staff members, for their continuous dedication to this yearlong project.
“Everyone was simply awesome,” extolled Lampley in noting the extraordinary amount of work that went into the planning, developing, and construction (literally) of the props that were required to make the event possible.
“This is the first time that we (the school) partnered directly with the church to make this work,” said Lampley. “The church members, the choir, the hospitality committee, and especially the men of the church (who built the props) were all wonderful.”
Lampley was also quick to offer her appreciation for the 15-20 donors who provided the necessities required to “authenticate” the various phases of the journey.
The night was cold and wet, but the affiliates of Second Baptist remained undaunted by the elements.
“We had been planning and working on this event for the entire year,” said Lampley, “so we couldn’t let a little weather stop us.”
Evidently, such a holiday spirit permeated the community as well – Lampley indicated that over 500 “visitation cards” were completed by attendees making the Journey to Bethlehem tour.
Groups of 40-50 attendees were gathered in the sanctuary and then led through the five “scenes” on their way to the ultimate destination of Bethlehem on the grounds adjacent to the school.
Greeted by the “Singing Christmas Tree” (comprised of the school chorus), the “travelers” next entered Candy Land, where a group of preschoolers (ages three to six) prepared various treats and goodies.
The designated path then led through “Winter Wonderland” (complete with snow blowers and an ice rink), and the “Festival of Trees” (22 Christmas trees), straight into “Santa’s Workshop” where, with the help of his elves and Mrs. Clause (and even some of his reindeer), Santa himself was hard at work in preparation for the big night of Christmas Eve.
A group of carolers (singers from first to sixth grades) serenaded the visitors as they made their way to see Baby Jesus and the manger scene, complete with live animals.
Lampley refused to rest on the laurels of this huge success, however; she stipulated that plans are already in the works for next year.
