Open Hearts in Bethlehem

Open Hearts in Bethlehem On Christmas Eve, thirteen of our young people here at St. Mark's gifted their church family with a revealing presentation of the story of Jesus' birth. The gift was purchased at the cost of their time, talent, and hard work at the time of year when there already aren't enough hours in the day to do everything that needs to be done.

During a handful of rehearsals, they learned about the cultural history of the Hebrew people and discovered what living in the occupied city of Bethlehem might actually have been like. In understanding and learning their lines, they came to realize the hardships and dangers of living at that time.

Open Hearts in Bethlehem This was a first for this young cast in that they had to memorize the 1/2 hour long script without any adults on which they could depend. There was also no music to help them along and their movements had to be very natural and reasoned out.

The cast ranged in age from 3rd to 10th grade and was led by Jacob Schreckengast and Sadie Wentzel in the lead roles of Benjamin and Judith Avrim, cousins of Joseph and Mary (who were portrayed by Sean Jensen and Hannah Haussmann). Other roles were played by Ben Haussmann, Owen Gair, Gabriella Gregory, Elizabeth Haussmann, Stefan Weber, Taylor Wentzel, and Grace and Jonah Schreckengast. Makensi Doebler acted as narrator for this script by Kenneth E. Bailey.

Open Hearts in Bethlehem

At this time, we would also like to thank the parents who made sure their children were here, cut short family trips, supplemented costumes, and, in the case of Andrea and Vicki, helped with the children, lights and props on stage. Declan Jones was stage manager and assistant director. He was joined by his sister, Sara when she returned home from college. As always, Pr. Elkin, Lou DeSeau, and Bob Miller were of invaluable assistance.