creative in bethlehem · o little town of bethlehem, how still we see thee lie! above thy deep and...
TRANSCRIPT
ON-2
In BethlehemA Series Of Special Services For Advent
By Arden W. Mead
In BethlehemIn BethlehemOne Night
CREATIVE
CREATIVE
CREATIVE
COMMUNICATIONS
COMMUNICATIONS
COMMUNICATIONS In Bethlehem
COMMUNICATIONS In BethlehemIn Bethlehem
COMMUNICATIONS In Bethlehem
A Series Of Special Services For Advent
COMMUNICATIONS A Series Of Special Services For Advent
COMMUNICATIONS In Bethlehem
COMMUNICATIONS In BethlehemIn Bethlehem
COMMUNICATIONS In Bethlehem
One Night
COMMUNICATIONS
One NightOne Night
COMMUNICATIONS
One NightOne Night
COMMUNICATIONS
One Night
SAMPLESIn Bethlehem
SAMPLESIn Bethlehem
SAMPLESIn Bethlehem
SAMPLESIn BethlehemIn Bethlehem
SAMPLESIn BethlehemOne Night
SAMPLESOne NightOne Night
SAMPLESOne NightOne Night
SAMPLESOne Night
A Series Of Special Services For Advent 27
In BethlehemA Series Of Special Services For Advent
By Arden W. Mead
In BethlehemIn BethlehemOne Night
Service Two: In The Field
An Order Of Service ...............................................28-30
Scripture Readings ...................................................... 31
Children’s Sermon ..................................................32-33
Script .........................................................................34-41
Concluding Homily ................................................42-44
Prayers ......................................................................45-47
CREATIVE
CREATIVE
In BethlehemCREATIVE
In BethlehemA Series Of Special Services For Advent
CREATIVE
A Series Of Special Services For Advent
By Arden W. Mead
CREATIVE
By Arden W. Mead
CREATIVE Service Two: In The Field
CREATIVE Service Two: In The Field
...............................................28-30
CREATIVE ...............................................28-30
COMMUNICATIONS
COMMUNICATIONS
In BethlehemCOMMUNICATIONS
In BethlehemA Series Of Special Services For Advent
COMMUNICATIONS
A Series Of Special Services For Advent
By Arden W. Mead
COMMUNICATIONS
By Arden W. Mead
COMMUNICATIONS
Service Two: In The Field
COMMUNICATIONS
Service Two: In The Field
...............................................28-30
COMMUNICATIONS
...............................................28-30
...................................................... 31
COMMUNICATIONS
...................................................... 31
COMMUNICATIONS ..................................................32-33
COMMUNICATIONS ..................................................32-33
.........................................................................34-41
COMMUNICATIONS .........................................................................34-41
................................................42-44
COMMUNICATIONS ................................................42-44
SAMPLES
SAMPLES
SAMPLES
Service Two: In The Field
SAMPLES
Service Two: In The Field
An Order Of Service
SAMPLESAn Order Of Service...............................................28-30
SAMPLES...............................................28-30
...................................................... 31
SAMPLES...................................................... 31
SAMPLES..................................................32-33
SAMPLES..................................................32-33
.........................................................................34-41
SAMPLES.........................................................................34-41
28 One Night In Bethlehem
An Order Of Service
—In the Field—Imagine you are taking a guided tour of the Holy Land, 2,000 years ago. Your group had intended to reach Jerusalem this evening, but something happened on the way, and you find yourselves instead stuck for the night in Bethlehem. Desperately, your tour guide looks for something—anything—to show you in this historic old sheeptown.
O Little Town of Bethlehem ....................................................... Micah 5:2, 4-5aO little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie!
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by.Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting Light.
The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.
L O Bethlehem of Ephrathah, you are one of the little clans of Judah. C But from you shall come forth for me one who is to rule Israel. His kingdom
is eternal. L Like a shepherd taking care of his sheep, he will lead his people.C He will care for them by the power and glorious name of the Lord his God. L His people will live securely, and the whole earth will know his true greatness, C because he will bring peace.
The Prayer of the Day
In BethlehemIn BethlehemIn BethlehemOne Night
CREATIVE
An Order Of ServiceCREATIVE
An Order Of Service
—In the Field—
CREATIVE
—In the Field—Imagine you are taking a guided tour of the Holy Land, 2,000 years ago. Your group had
CREATIVE
Imagine you are taking a guided tour of the Holy Land, 2,000 years ago. Your group had intended to reach Jerusalem this evening, but something happened on the way, and you
CREATIVE
intended to reach Jerusalem this evening, but something happened on the way, and you find yourselves instead stuck for the night in Bethlehem. Desperately, your tour guide
CREATIVE find yourselves instead stuck for the night in Bethlehem. Desperately, your tour guide looks for something—anything—to show you in this historic old sheeptown.
CREATIVE looks for something—anything—to show you in this historic old sheeptown.
....................................................... Micah 5:2, 4-5a
CREATIVE ....................................................... Micah 5:2, 4-5aO little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie!
CREATIVE O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie!Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by.
CREATIVE Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by.
CREATIVE
COMMUNICATIONS
—In the Field—
COMMUNICATIONS
—In the Field—Imagine you are taking a guided tour of the Holy Land, 2,000 years ago. Your group had
COMMUNICATIONS
Imagine you are taking a guided tour of the Holy Land, 2,000 years ago. Your group had intended to reach Jerusalem this evening, but something happened on the way, and you
COMMUNICATIONS
intended to reach Jerusalem this evening, but something happened on the way, and you find yourselves instead stuck for the night in Bethlehem. Desperately, your tour guide
COMMUNICATIONS
find yourselves instead stuck for the night in Bethlehem. Desperately, your tour guide looks for something—anything—to show you in this historic old sheeptown.
COMMUNICATIONS
looks for something—anything—to show you in this historic old sheeptown.
....................................................... Micah 5:2, 4-5a
COMMUNICATIONS
....................................................... Micah 5:2, 4-5aO little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie!
COMMUNICATIONS
O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie!Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by.
COMMUNICATIONS
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by.Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting Light.
COMMUNICATIONS
Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting Light.The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.
COMMUNICATIONS
The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.
e one of the little clans of Judah.
COMMUNICATIONS e one of the little clans of Judah.
from you shall come forth for me one who is to rule Israel. His kingdom
COMMUNICATIONS from you shall come forth for me one who is to rule Israel. His kingdom
He will care for them by the power and glorious name of the Lord his God.
COMMUNICATIONS He will care for them by the power and glorious name of the Lord his God.
ely, and the whole earth will know his true greatness,
COMMUNICATIONS ely, and the whole earth will know his true greatness,
COMMUNICATIONS
In BethlehemCOMMUNICATIONS
In BethlehemIn BethlehemCOMMUNICATIONS
In Bethlehem
SAMPLES
Imagine you are taking a guided tour of the Holy Land, 2,000 years ago. Your group had SAMPLES
Imagine you are taking a guided tour of the Holy Land, 2,000 years ago. Your group had intended to reach Jerusalem this evening, but something happened on the way, and you
SAMPLES
intended to reach Jerusalem this evening, but something happened on the way, and you find yourselves instead stuck for the night in Bethlehem. Desperately, your tour guide
SAMPLES
find yourselves instead stuck for the night in Bethlehem. Desperately, your tour guide looks for something—anything—to show you in this historic old sheeptown.
SAMPLES
looks for something—anything—to show you in this historic old sheeptown.
O Little Town of Bethlehem
SAMPLESO Little Town of Bethlehem ....................................................... Micah 5:2, 4-5a
SAMPLES....................................................... Micah 5:2, 4-5a
O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie!
SAMPLESO little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie!
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by.
SAMPLESAbove thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by.
Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting Light.
SAMPLESYet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting Light.
The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.
SAMPLESThe hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.
e one of the little clans of Judah.
SAMPLESe one of the little clans of Judah. from you shall come forth for me one who is to rule Israel. His kingdom
SAMPLESfrom you shall come forth for me one who is to rule Israel. His kingdom
e of his sheep, he will lead his people.
SAMPLESe of his sheep, he will lead his people.
A Series Of Special Services For Advent 29
How silently, how silently the wondrous gift is giv’n!So God imparts to human hearts the blessings of his heav’n.
No ear may hear his coming; but in this world of sin,Where meek souls will receive him, still the dear Christ enters in.
Old Testament Lesson ................................................................Ezekiel 34:11-16
Psalm 23 .................................................................................... Ihr Kinderlein kommet(In this styling, phrases of the hymn interrupt the reading of the Psalm.
The final chord of each phrase is held softly over the spoken words.)
L The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
The Lord is my Shepherd, who richly provides.
L He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul.
Securely I follow wherever he guides.
L He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
No foe that may threaten can cause me to fear;The Lord, my good Shepherd, forever is near!
L Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff—they comfort me.
The Lord is my Shepherd, who richly provides.
L You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Securely I follow wherever he guides.
L Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
No foe that may threaten can cause me to fear;The Lord, my good Shepherd, forever is near!
Gospel .........................................................................................................John 10:1-5
Theme Hymn ............................................................Once in Royal David’s CityOnce in royal David’s city stood a lowly cattle shed,
Where a mother laid her baby in a manger for his bed.Mary was that mother mild, Jesus Christ her little child.
CREATIVE
The final chord of each phrase is held softly over the spoken words.)CREATIVE
The final chord of each phrase is held softly over the spoken words.)
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.CREATIVE
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
The Lord is my Shepherd, who richly provides.
CREATIVE
The Lord is my Shepherd, who richly provides.
He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul.
CREATIVE
He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul.
Securely I follow wherever he guides.
CREATIVE
Securely I follow wherever he guides.
He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’
CREATIVE
He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
CREATIVE
s sake.He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’
CREATIVE
He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’
No foe that may threaten can cause me to fear;
CREATIVE
No foe that may threaten can cause me to fear;The Lord, my good Shepherd, forever is near!
CREATIVE
The Lord, my good Shepherd, forever is near!
though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your
CREATIVE though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your
CREATIVE The Lord is my Shepherd, who richly provides.
CREATIVE The Lord is my Shepherd, who richly provides.
ou prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with
CREATIVE ou prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with
COMMUNICATIONS
Old Testament LessonCOMMUNICATIONS
Old Testament Lesson
Psalm 23COMMUNICATIONS
Psalm 23
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
COMMUNICATIONS
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
The Lord is my Shepherd, who richly provides.
COMMUNICATIONS
The Lord is my Shepherd, who richly provides.
He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul.
COMMUNICATIONS
He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul.
Securely I follow wherever he guides.
COMMUNICATIONS
Securely I follow wherever he guides.
He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’
COMMUNICATIONS
He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’
No foe that may threaten can cause me to fear;
COMMUNICATIONS
No foe that may threaten can cause me to fear;The Lord, my good Shepherd, forever is near!
COMMUNICATIONS
The Lord, my good Shepherd, forever is near!
though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your
COMMUNICATIONS
though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your
COMMUNICATIONS
The Lord is my Shepherd, who richly provides.
COMMUNICATIONS
The Lord is my Shepherd, who richly provides.
ou prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with
COMMUNICATIONS
ou prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with
Securely I follow wherever he guides.
COMMUNICATIONS
Securely I follow wherever he guides.
ely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I shall dwell in the
COMMUNICATIONS
ely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I shall dwell in the
No foe that may threaten can cause me to fear;
COMMUNICATIONS No foe that may threaten can cause me to fear;
.........................................................................................................John 1
COMMUNICATIONS .........................................................................................................John 10:1-5
COMMUNICATIONS 0:1-5
oyal David’s City
COMMUNICATIONS oyal David’s City
SAMPLES
He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’SAMPLES
He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’
No foe that may threaten can cause me to fear;SAMPLES
No foe that may threaten can cause me to fear;The Lord, my good Shepherd, forever is near!
SAMPLES
The Lord, my good Shepherd, forever is near!
though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your
SAMPLES
though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff—they comfort me.
SAMPLES
rod and your staff—they comfort me.
SAMPLESThe Lord is my Shepherd, who richly provides.
SAMPLESThe Lord is my Shepherd, who richly provides.
ou prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with
SAMPLESou prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with
Securely I follow wherever he guides.
SAMPLESSecurely I follow wherever he guides.
ely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I shall dwell in the
SAMPLESely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I shall dwell in the
No foe that may threaten can cause me to fear;
SAMPLESNo foe that may threaten can cause me to fear;
30 One Night In Bethlehem
Shepherds in the field abiding, watching o’er the flocks by night,Soon would hear angelic voices, soon would see a wondrous sight:Christ the Lord proclaimed to them, born that night in Bethlehem!
Children’s Sermon
“One Night in Bethlehem”In the Field
Now our eyes in truth should see him through his own redeeming love,For that child so dear and gentle is our Lord in heav’n above,As he leads his children on to the place where he has gone.
Homily
Hymn ............................................................... It Came Upon the Midnight ClearIt came upon the midnight clear, that glorious song of old,
From angels bending near the earth to touch their harps of gold:“Peace on the earth, good will to all, from heav’n’s all-gracious King.”
The world in solemn stillness lay to hear the angels sing.
For lo, the days have come to pass by prophets seen of old,When down into the circling years came Christ as was foretold.
His word of peace shall to the earth God’s ancient promise bring,And all who take this gift will hear the song the angels sing.
Prayers and Offering
Lord’s Prayer or Holy Communion
Benediction
Closing Hymn .................................................................................... Adeste Fideles Sing, choirs of angels, sing in exultation,
Sing, all ye citizens of heaven above!Glory to God in the highest:
Oh, come, let us adore him, oh, come let us adore him,Oh, come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord!
CREATIVE
Now our eyes in truth should see him through his own redeeming love,CREATIVE
Now our eyes in truth should see him through his own redeeming love,For that child so dear and gentle is our Lord in heav’n above,CREATIVE
For that child so dear and gentle is our Lord in heav’n above,As he leads his children on to the place where he has gone.
CREATIVE
As he leads his children on to the place where he has gone.
Homily
CREATIVE
Homily
............................................................... It Came U
CREATIVE
............................................................... It Came UIt came upon the midnight clear, that glorious song of old,
CREATIVE
It came upon the midnight clear, that glorious song of old,From angels bending near the earth to touch their harps of gold:
CREATIVE
From angels bending near the earth to touch their harps of gold:“Peace on the earth, good will to all, from heav’n’s all-gracious King.”
CREATIVE
“Peace on the earth, good will to all, from heav’n’s all-gracious King.”The world in solemn stillness lay to hear the angels sing.
CREATIVE The world in solemn stillness lay to hear the angels sing.
For lo, the days have come to pass by prophets seen of old,
CREATIVE For lo, the days have come to pass by prophets seen of old,
When down into the circling years came Christ as was foretold.
CREATIVE When down into the circling years came Christ as was foretold.
His word of peace shall to the earth God’s ancient promise bring,
CREATIVE His word of peace shall to the earth God’s ancient promise bring,And all who take this gift will hear the song the angels sing.
CREATIVE And all who take this gift will hear the song the angels sing.
COMMUNICATIONS
Now our eyes in truth should see him through his own redeeming love,
COMMUNICATIONS
Now our eyes in truth should see him through his own redeeming love,For that child so dear and gentle is our Lord in heav’n above,
COMMUNICATIONS
For that child so dear and gentle is our Lord in heav’n above,As he leads his children on to the place where he has gone.
COMMUNICATIONS
As he leads his children on to the place where he has gone.
............................................................... It Came U
COMMUNICATIONS
............................................................... It Came UIt came upon the midnight clear, that glorious song of old,
COMMUNICATIONS
It came upon the midnight clear, that glorious song of old,From angels bending near the earth to touch their harps of gold:
COMMUNICATIONS
From angels bending near the earth to touch their harps of gold:“Peace on the earth, good will to all, from heav’n’s all-gracious King.”
COMMUNICATIONS
“Peace on the earth, good will to all, from heav’n’s all-gracious King.”The world in solemn stillness lay to hear the angels sing.
COMMUNICATIONS
The world in solemn stillness lay to hear the angels sing.
For lo, the days have come to pass by prophets seen of old,
COMMUNICATIONS
For lo, the days have come to pass by prophets seen of old,When down into the circling years came Christ as was foretold.
COMMUNICATIONS
When down into the circling years came Christ as was foretold.His word of peace shall to the earth God’s ancient promise bring,
COMMUNICATIONS
His word of peace shall to the earth God’s ancient promise bring,And all who take this gift will hear the song the angels sing.
COMMUNICATIONS
And all who take this gift will hear the song the angels sing.
Prayers and Offering
COMMUNICATIONS
Prayers and Offering
Lord’s Prayer or Holy Communion
COMMUNICATIONS
Lord’s Prayer or Holy Communion
COMMUNICATIONS .................................................................................... A
COMMUNICATIONS .................................................................................... Adeste Fideles
COMMUNICATIONS deste Fideles
SAMPLES
It came upon the midnight clear, that glorious song of old,SAMPLES
It came upon the midnight clear, that glorious song of old,From angels bending near the earth to touch their harps of gold:SAMPLES
From angels bending near the earth to touch their harps of gold:“Peace on the earth, good will to all, from heav’n’s all-gracious King.”
SAMPLES
“Peace on the earth, good will to all, from heav’n’s all-gracious King.”The world in solemn stillness lay to hear the angels sing.
SAMPLES
The world in solemn stillness lay to hear the angels sing.
For lo, the days have come to pass by prophets seen of old,
SAMPLES
For lo, the days have come to pass by prophets seen of old,When down into the circling years came Christ as was foretold.
SAMPLES
When down into the circling years came Christ as was foretold.His word of peace shall to the earth God’s ancient promise bring,
SAMPLESHis word of peace shall to the earth God’s ancient promise bring,
And all who take this gift will hear the song the angels sing.
SAMPLESAnd all who take this gift will hear the song the angels sing.
Prayers and Offering
SAMPLESPrayers and Offering
Lord’s Prayer or Holy Communion
SAMPLESLord’s Prayer or Holy Communion
Benediction
SAMPLESBenediction
.................................................................................... A
SAMPLES.................................................................................... A
34 One Night In Bethlehem
Script
—In the Field—Based in part on old-time radio shows, this drama involves voices, some sound effects, and a generous dose of imagination. The tour guide may speak from the lectern, dramatically pointing to things about which he or she is speaking (you will be amazed and surprised when the congregation looks to a given wall to “see” such items as a hill or a flock of sheep). Please note that while the tour guide indicated in this script is a male character (to avoid gender gymnastics while writing), the guide could easily be female—simply change the “sirs” to “ma’ams.” Also note that, although the group is often “walk-ing,” the tour guide need not move from the lectern. One actor (here indicated as a woman, although nearly anyone could play the part) is situated in the congregation, perhaps toward the back. Occasionally, she stands to deliver a line. The remainder of the actors speak from the back of the church—prefer-ably the balcony, if your sanctuary has one. It is these overheard voices that provide much of the ... well ... the “realness” of this drama.
In this drama, parts 1 and 3 are played by men. Part 2 can be played by a boy or a young teenager. The part marked “woman” can be played from the midst of the congregation, perhaps toward the back.
As the drama begins, the tour guide has taken the group on a little hike, and has now gathered them together on a hill outside of Bethlehem ...
In BethlehemIn BethlehemIn BethlehemOne Night
CREATIVE
ScriptCREATIVE
Script
—In the Field—
CREATIVE
—In the Field—Based in part on old-time radio shows, this drama involves voices, some sound
CREATIVE
Based in part on old-time radio shows, this drama involves voices, some sound effects, and a generous dose of imagination. The tour guide may speak from
CREATIVE
effects, and a generous dose of imagination. The tour guide may speak from the lectern, dramatically pointing to things about which he or she is speaking
CREATIVE the lectern, dramatically pointing to things about which he or she is speaking (you will be amazed and surprised when the congregation looks to a given
CREATIVE (you will be amazed and surprised when the congregation looks to a given wall to “see” such items as a hill or a flock of sheep). Please note that while
CREATIVE wall to “see” such items as a hill or a flock of sheep). Please note that while the tour guide indicated in this script is a male character (to avoid gender
CREATIVE the tour guide indicated in this script is a male character (to avoid gender gymnastics while writing), the guide could easily be female—simply change
CREATIVE gymnastics while writing), the guide could easily be female—simply change the “sirs” to “ma’ams.” Also note that, although the group is often “walk-
CREATIVE the “sirs” to “ma’ams.” Also note that, although the group is often “walk-ing,” the tour guide need not move from the lectern. One actor (here indicated
CREATIVE ing,” the tour guide need not move from the lectern. One actor (here indicated as a woman, although nearly anyone could play the part) is situated in the
CREATIVE as a woman, although nearly anyone could play the part) is situated in the
CREATIVE
COMMUNICATIONS
—In the Field—
COMMUNICATIONS
—In the Field—Based in part on old-time radio shows, this drama involves voices, some sound
COMMUNICATIONS
Based in part on old-time radio shows, this drama involves voices, some sound effects, and a generous dose of imagination. The tour guide may speak from
COMMUNICATIONS
effects, and a generous dose of imagination. The tour guide may speak from the lectern, dramatically pointing to things about which he or she is speaking
COMMUNICATIONS
the lectern, dramatically pointing to things about which he or she is speaking (you will be amazed and surprised when the congregation looks to a given
COMMUNICATIONS
(you will be amazed and surprised when the congregation looks to a given wall to “see” such items as a hill or a flock of sheep). Please note that while
COMMUNICATIONS
wall to “see” such items as a hill or a flock of sheep). Please note that while the tour guide indicated in this script is a male character (to avoid gender
COMMUNICATIONS
the tour guide indicated in this script is a male character (to avoid gender gymnastics while writing), the guide could easily be female—simply change
COMMUNICATIONS
gymnastics while writing), the guide could easily be female—simply change the “sirs” to “ma’ams.” Also note that, although the group is often “walk-
COMMUNICATIONS
the “sirs” to “ma’ams.” Also note that, although the group is often “walk-ing,” the tour guide need not move from the lectern. One actor (here indicated
COMMUNICATIONS
ing,” the tour guide need not move from the lectern. One actor (here indicated as a woman, although nearly anyone could play the part) is situated in the
COMMUNICATIONS
as a woman, although nearly anyone could play the part) is situated in the congregation, perhaps toward the back. Occasionally, she stands to deliver a
COMMUNICATIONS
congregation, perhaps toward the back. Occasionally, she stands to deliver a line. The remainder of the actors speak from the back of the church—prefer-
COMMUNICATIONS
line. The remainder of the actors speak from the back of the church—prefer-ably the balcony, if your sanctuary has one. It is these overheard voices that
COMMUNICATIONS ably the balcony, if your sanctuary has one. It is these overheard voices that
In this drama, parts 1 and 3 are played by men. Part 2 can be played by a boy
COMMUNICATIONS In this drama, parts 1 and 3 are played by men. Part 2 can be played by a boy or a young teenager. The part marked “woman” can be played from the midst
COMMUNICATIONS or a young teenager. The part marked “woman” can be played from the midst
COMMUNICATIONS
In BethlehemCOMMUNICATIONS
In BethlehemIn BethlehemCOMMUNICATIONS
In Bethlehem
SAMPLES
Based in part on old-time radio shows, this drama involves voices, some sound SAMPLES
Based in part on old-time radio shows, this drama involves voices, some sound effects, and a generous dose of imagination. The tour guide may speak from
SAMPLES
effects, and a generous dose of imagination. The tour guide may speak from the lectern, dramatically pointing to things about which he or she is speaking
SAMPLES
the lectern, dramatically pointing to things about which he or she is speaking (you will be amazed and surprised when the congregation looks to a given
SAMPLES
(you will be amazed and surprised when the congregation looks to a given wall to “see” such items as a hill or a flock of sheep). Please note that while
SAMPLES
wall to “see” such items as a hill or a flock of sheep). Please note that while the tour guide indicated in this script is a male character (to avoid gender
SAMPLES
the tour guide indicated in this script is a male character (to avoid gender gymnastics while writing), the guide could easily be female—simply change
SAMPLESgymnastics while writing), the guide could easily be female—simply change the “sirs” to “ma’ams.” Also note that, although the group is often “walk-
SAMPLESthe “sirs” to “ma’ams.” Also note that, although the group is often “walk-ing,” the tour guide need not move from the lectern. One actor (here indicated
SAMPLESing,” the tour guide need not move from the lectern. One actor (here indicated as a woman, although nearly anyone could play the part) is situated in the
SAMPLESas a woman, although nearly anyone could play the part) is situated in the congregation, perhaps toward the back. Occasionally, she stands to deliver a
SAMPLEScongregation, perhaps toward the back. Occasionally, she stands to deliver a line. The remainder of the actors speak from the back of the church—prefer-
SAMPLESline. The remainder of the actors speak from the back of the church—prefer-ably the balcony, if your sanctuary has one. It is these overheard voices that
SAMPLESably the balcony, if your sanctuary has one. It is these overheard voices that
SAMPLESprovide much of the ... well ... the “realness” of this drama.
SAMPLESprovide much of the ... well ... the “realness” of this drama.
In this drama, parts 1 and 3 are played by men. Part 2 can be played by a boy
SAMPLESIn this drama, parts 1 and 3 are played by men. Part 2 can be played by a boy
A Series Of Special Services For Advent 35
Guide: Well, I hope you found this evening walk invigorating, ladies and gentle-men. It wasn’t too long a hike, and I thought that ... well ... as long as we are “stuck,” so to speak, in this little town of Bethlehem, we might as well take a field trip.
Woman: “Field trip” is right! You’ve walked us out into a field!
Guide: I know, ladies and gentlemen, that according to our itineraries we were all expecting to spend the evening in the majestic city of Jerusalem. (Under his breath) Believe me, no one regrets our current situation more than I do. (Recovering) But, as you know, our ... how shall I put it ... our “camel crisis” has placed us square in the center of the booming metroplex of Bethlehem against our wills.
Woman: I think a sheep just bit me.
Guide: I’m sure you can bite it back. (To the group) And, as long as we are here, I thought it a good idea to take the opportunity to walk outside of town for two reasons.
Woman: What? To finish us off out in this field?
Guide: Three, then. First, this hilltop location provides us an excellent evening view of the tiny town. Notice the windows, lit with the light of ... what ... maybe a hundred oil lamps? A sleepy little town nestled in the hills—it is quite picturesque, don’t you think? A silent night if ever there was one. The stars are about to come out. Perhaps we’ll see some constellations.
1: Joshua, have you finished gathering up the sheep?
2: (As from a distance) Not yet, Father! I’m working on it.
1: Well, gather them up and make them all lie down. Then come and sit down with your Uncle Caleb and me.
2: Yes, Father!
Guide: And this is the other reason I wanted us all to gather out in this field this evening. I thought, as long as we are here, that we could dig, a bit, into the local industry.
CREATIVE
expecting to spend the evening in the majestic city of Jerusalem. CREATIVE
expecting to spend the evening in the majestic city of Jerusalem. Believe me, no one regrets our current situation more than I do. CREATIVE
Believe me, no one regrets our current situation more than I do. But, as you know, our ... how shall I put it ... our “camel crisis” CREATIVE
But, as you know, our ... how shall I put it ... our “camel crisis” has placed us square in the center of the booming metroplex of Bethlehem
CREATIVE
has placed us square in the center of the booming metroplex of Bethlehem
I think a sheep just bit me.
CREATIVE
I think a sheep just bit me.
(To the group)
CREATIVE
(To the group) And, as long as we are here,
CREATIVE
And, as long as we are here, I thought it a good idea to take the opportunity to walk outside of town
CREATIVE
I thought it a good idea to take the opportunity to walk outside of town
ee, then. First, this hilltop location provides us an excellent evening
CREATIVE ee, then. First, this hilltop location provides us an excellent evening
view of the tiny town. Notice the windows, lit with the light of ... what ...
CREATIVE view of the tiny town. Notice the windows, lit with the light of ... what ... maybe a hundred oil lamps? A sleepy little town nestled in the hills—it
CREATIVE maybe a hundred oil lamps? A sleepy little town nestled in the hills—it is quite picturesque, don’t you think? A silent night if ever there was one.
CREATIVE is quite picturesque, don’t you think? A silent night if ever there was one. The stars are about to come out. Perhaps we’ll see some constellations.
CREATIVE The stars are about to come out. Perhaps we’ll see some constellations.
COMMUNICATIONS
WCOMMUNICATIONS
Woman:COMMUNICATIONS
oman:Woman:WCOMMUNICATIONS
Woman:W
Guide:COMMUNICATIONS
Guide:expecting to spend the evening in the majestic city of Jerusalem.
COMMUNICATIONS
expecting to spend the evening in the majestic city of Jerusalem. his breath)
COMMUNICATIONS
his breath)(Recovering)
COMMUNICATIONS
(Recovering)has placed us square in the center of the booming metroplex of Bethlehem
COMMUNICATIONS
has placed us square in the center of the booming metroplex of Bethlehem against our wills.
COMMUNICATIONS
against our wills.
I think a sheep just bit me.
COMMUNICATIONS
I think a sheep just bit me.
sure you can bite it back.
COMMUNICATIONS
sure you can bite it back. I thought it a good idea to take the opportunity to walk outside of town
COMMUNICATIONS
I thought it a good idea to take the opportunity to walk outside of town
o finish us off out in this field?
COMMUNICATIONS
o finish us off out in this field?
ee, then. First, this hilltop location provides us an excellent evening
COMMUNICATIONS
ee, then. First, this hilltop location provides us an excellent evening view of the tiny town. Notice the windows, lit with the light of ... what ...
COMMUNICATIONS
view of the tiny town. Notice the windows, lit with the light of ... what ... maybe a hundred oil lamps? A sleepy little town nestled in the hills—it
COMMUNICATIONS
maybe a hundred oil lamps? A sleepy little town nestled in the hills—it is quite picturesque, don’t you think? A silent night if ever there was one.
COMMUNICATIONS
is quite picturesque, don’t you think? A silent night if ever there was one. The stars are about to come out. Perhaps we’ll see some constellations.
COMMUNICATIONS
The stars are about to come out. Perhaps we’ll see some constellations.
Joshua, have you finished gathering up the sheep?
COMMUNICATIONS
Joshua, have you finished gathering up the sheep?
Not yet, Father! I’m working on it.
COMMUNICATIONS Not yet, Father! I’m working on it.
ell, gather them up and make them all lie down. Then come and sit
COMMUNICATIONS ell, gather them up and make them all lie down. Then come and sit
this is the other reason I wanted us all to gather out in this field this
COMMUNICATIONS this is the other reason I wanted us all to gather out in this field this
SAMPLES
I’m SAMPLES
I’m sure you can bite it back. SAMPLES
sure you can bite it back. I thought it a good idea to take the opportunity to walk outside of town SAMPLES
I thought it a good idea to take the opportunity to walk outside of town for two reasons. SAMPLES
for two reasons.
What? T
SAMPLES
What? To finish us off out in this field?
SAMPLES
o finish us off out in this field?What? To finish us off out in this field?What? T
SAMPLES
What? To finish us off out in this field?What? T
ee, then. First, this hilltop location provides us an excellent evening
SAMPLES
ee, then. First, this hilltop location provides us an excellent evening view of the tiny town. Notice the windows, lit with the light of ... what ...
SAMPLES
view of the tiny town. Notice the windows, lit with the light of ... what ... maybe a hundred oil lamps? A sleepy little town nestled in the hills—it
SAMPLESmaybe a hundred oil lamps? A sleepy little town nestled in the hills—it is quite picturesque, don’t you think? A silent night if ever there was one.
SAMPLESis quite picturesque, don’t you think? A silent night if ever there was one. The stars are about to come out. Perhaps we’ll see some constellations.
SAMPLESThe stars are about to come out. Perhaps we’ll see some constellations.
Joshua, have you finished gathering up the sheep?
SAMPLESJoshua, have you finished gathering up the sheep?
Not yet, Father! I’m working on it.
SAMPLES Not yet, Father! I’m working on it.
ell, gather them up and make them all lie down. Then come and sit
SAMPLESell, gather them up and make them all lie down. Then come and sit
36 One Night In Bethlehem
Woman: This is “industry”?
Guide: Yes, ma’am. For this little town, anyway, this is as close to “industry” as we are likely to get—an important industry for this part of the world. Sheep are small animals, therefore inexpensive. They are easier to buy and raise than larger cattle. And they are well adapted to this arid environment. Add to that the wool that they provide ... and the meat, of course ... and sheep become a major “industry” for the local people.
Consider the fact that for many centuries a person’s wealth was measured by the size of the flock they owned. Sheep were a sign of wealth, despite the fact that, to this day, the people who actually care for the flocks are considered rather dirty, poorly paid and lowly.
And this particular “industry” is deeply rooted in this town. Bethlehem has been a sheeptown for well over one thousand years. In fact, it was almost exactly a millennium ago that Bethlehem’s most famous resident ... most famous shepherd ... herded his sheep right here—perhaps right on this very hill! David was a shepherd boy.
Woman: The king?
Guide: The king! His is quite a story—a real pauper to prince tale. And this com-munity—this “City of David”—has never forgotten it.
As you can see, a friendly fire has been lit just over there, and a few of the local shepherds are beginning to gather around it. Perhaps we could move just a bit closer, and, pretending to look at the stars, we just might overhear what these shepherds are talking about.
Listen, people. Absorb the culture ....
1: Joshua, are you finished?
2: Yes, Father.
1: And the sheep are all lying down?
2: Yes, Father.
1: And you’ve counted them all? They’re all there?
CREATIVE
onsider the fact that for many centuries a person’s wealth was measured CREATIVE
onsider the fact that for many centuries a person’s wealth was measured by the size of the flock they owned. Sheep were a sign of wealth, despite CREATIVE
by the size of the flock they owned. Sheep were a sign of wealth, despite the fact that, to this day, the people who actually care for the flocks are
CREATIVE
the fact that, to this day, the people who actually care for the flocks are considered rather dirty, poorly paid and lowly.
CREATIVE
considered rather dirty, poorly paid and lowly.
this particular “industry” is deeply rooted in this town. Bethlehem
CREATIVE
this particular “industry” is deeply rooted in this town. Bethlehem has been a sheeptown for well over one thousand years. In fact, it was
CREATIVE
has been a sheeptown for well over one thousand years. In fact, it was almost exactly a millennium ago that Bethlehem’s most famous resident
CREATIVE
almost exactly a millennium ago that Bethlehem’s most famous resident ... most famous shepherd ... herded his sheep right here—perhaps right
CREATIVE
... most famous shepherd ... herded his sheep right here—perhaps right on this very hill! David was a shepherd boy.
CREATIVE
on this very hill! David was a shepherd boy.
king! His is quite a story—a real pauper to prince tale. And this com-
CREATIVE king! His is quite a story—a real pauper to prince tale. And this com-
munity—this “City of David”—has never forgotten it.
CREATIVE munity—this “City of David”—has never forgotten it.
you can see, a friendly fire has been lit just over there, and a few of
CREATIVE you can see, a friendly fire has been lit just over there, and a few of the local shepherds are beginning to gather around it. Perhaps we could
CREATIVE the local shepherds are beginning to gather around it. Perhaps we could
COMMUNICATIONS
sheep become a major “industry” for the local people. COMMUNICATIONS
sheep become a major “industry” for the local people.
C
COMMUNICATIONS
Consider the fact that for many centuries a person’s wealth was measured
COMMUNICATIONS
onsider the fact that for many centuries a person’s wealth was measured by the size of the flock they owned. Sheep were a sign of wealth, despite
COMMUNICATIONS
by the size of the flock they owned. Sheep were a sign of wealth, despite the fact that, to this day, the people who actually care for the flocks are
COMMUNICATIONS
the fact that, to this day, the people who actually care for the flocks are considered rather dirty, poorly paid and lowly.
COMMUNICATIONS
considered rather dirty, poorly paid and lowly.
this particular “industry” is deeply rooted in this town. Bethlehem
COMMUNICATIONS
this particular “industry” is deeply rooted in this town. Bethlehem has been a sheeptown for well over one thousand years. In fact, it was
COMMUNICATIONS
has been a sheeptown for well over one thousand years. In fact, it was almost exactly a millennium ago that Bethlehem’s most famous resident
COMMUNICATIONS
almost exactly a millennium ago that Bethlehem’s most famous resident ... most famous shepherd ... herded his sheep right here—perhaps right
COMMUNICATIONS
... most famous shepherd ... herded his sheep right here—perhaps right on this very hill! David was a shepherd boy.
COMMUNICATIONS
on this very hill! David was a shepherd boy.
king! His is quite a story—a real pauper to prince tale. And this com-
COMMUNICATIONS
king! His is quite a story—a real pauper to prince tale. And this com-munity—this “City of David”—has never forgotten it.
COMMUNICATIONS
munity—this “City of David”—has never forgotten it.
you can see, a friendly fire has been lit just over there, and a few of
COMMUNICATIONS
you can see, a friendly fire has been lit just over there, and a few of the local shepherds are beginning to gather around it. Perhaps we could
COMMUNICATIONS
the local shepherds are beginning to gather around it. Perhaps we could
COMMUNICATIONS
move just a bit closer, and, pretending to look at the stars, we just might
COMMUNICATIONS
move just a bit closer, and, pretending to look at the stars, we just might overhear what these shepherds are talking about.
COMMUNICATIONS
overhear what these shepherds are talking about.
SAMPLES
almost exactly a millennium ago that Bethlehem’s most famous resident SAMPLES
almost exactly a millennium ago that Bethlehem’s most famous resident ... most famous shepherd ... herded his sheep right here—perhaps right SAMPLES
... most famous shepherd ... herded his sheep right here—perhaps right on this very hill! David was a shepherd boy.SAMPLES
on this very hill! David was a shepherd boy.
The king?
SAMPLES
The king?
king! His is quite a story—a real pauper to prince tale. And this com-
SAMPLES
king! His is quite a story—a real pauper to prince tale. And this com-munity—this “City of David”—has never forgotten it.
SAMPLES
munity—this “City of David”—has never forgotten it.
you can see, a friendly fire has been lit just over there, and a few of
SAMPLESyou can see, a friendly fire has been lit just over there, and a few of
the local shepherds are beginning to gather around it. Perhaps we could
SAMPLESthe local shepherds are beginning to gather around it. Perhaps we could
SAMPLESmove just a bit closer, and, pretending to look at the stars, we just might
SAMPLESmove just a bit closer, and, pretending to look at the stars, we just might overhear what these shepherds are talking about.
SAMPLESoverhear what these shepherds are talking about.
Absorb the culture ....
SAMPLESAbsorb the culture ....
A Series Of Special Services For Advent 37
3: (Sarcastically) No, Ishmael, they aren’t all there. A lion got twenty of them. A bear got fifteen. Of course he counted them! How could he not count them? Right, Josh?
2: Right, Uncle Caleb.
3: You have to start trusting the boy, Ishmael. Stop being so hard on him.
1: And you’ll have to stop being so hard on his father, Caleb.
3: Right! Just like his father was easy on me when we were growing up.
1: Caleb!
2: Uncle Caleb, tell me a story about when you and Father were my age.
3:YourfatherwasNEVERyourage,Josh.
1: Caleb.
3: Besides, I don’t think your father’s in the mood. How about a different story? How about a DAVID story?
2:YES!ADavidstory!
1: You and those stories, Caleb.
3: There’s nothing wrong with “those stories,” Ishmael. Where’s your sense of history. For goodness’ sake, where’s your sense of adventure? So, Joshua, what story would you like to hear?
1: Here it comes ....
2: (Excited) The giant! David and the giant.
3: Joshua, I have a feeling you could tell that story yourself, you’ve heard it more than a dozen times ...
1: A hundred times.
CREATIVE
And you’ll have to stop being so harCREATIVE
And you’ll have to stop being so har
Right! Just like his father was easy on me when we werCREATIVE
Right! Just like his father was easy on me when we wer
Uncle Caleb, tell me a story about when you and Father wer
CREATIVE
Uncle Caleb, tell me a story about when you and Father wer
age,
CREATIVE
age, Josh.
CREATIVE
Josh.
CREATIVE I don’t think your father’s in the mood. How about a different
CREATIVE I don’t think your father’s in the mood. How about a different
COMMUNICATIONS
1:
COMMUNICATIONS
1: And you’ll have to stop being so har
COMMUNICATIONS
And you’ll have to stop being so har
3:
COMMUNICATIONS
3: Right! Just like his father was easy on me when we wer
COMMUNICATIONS
Right! Just like his father was easy on me when we wer
Caleb!
COMMUNICATIONS
Caleb!
Uncle Caleb, tell me a story about when you and Father wer
COMMUNICATIONS
Uncle Caleb, tell me a story about when you and Father wer
father
COMMUNICATIONS
father was
COMMUNICATIONS
was NEVER
COMMUNICATIONS
NEVER your
COMMUNICATIONS
your
COMMUNICATIONS
I don’t think your father’s in the mood. How about a different
COMMUNICATIONS
I don’t think your father’s in the mood. How about a different story? How about a DAVID story?
COMMUNICATIONS
story? How about a DAVID story?
here’s nothing wrong with “those stories,” Ishmael. Where’s your sense of
COMMUNICATIONS
here’s nothing wrong with “those stories,” Ishmael. Where’s your sense of history. For goodness’ sake, where’s your sense of adventure? So, Joshua,
COMMUNICATIONS
history. For goodness’ sake, where’s your sense of adventure? So, Joshua,
COMMUNICATIONS I have a feeling you could tell that story yourself, you’ve heard it
COMMUNICATIONS I have a feeling you could tell that story yourself, you’ve heard it
SAMPLES
YourSAMPLES
Your fatherSAMPLES
father
1:SAMPLES
1: Caleb.SAMPLES
Caleb.
Besides,
SAMPLES
Besides,
SAMPLES
I don’t think your father’s in the mood. How about a different
SAMPLES
I don’t think your father’s in the mood. How about a different story? How about a DAVID story?
SAMPLES
story? How about a DAVID story?
David
SAMPLES
David story!
SAMPLES
story!
ou and those stories, Caleb.
SAMPLESou and those stories, Caleb.
here’s nothing wrong with “those stories,” Ishmael. Where’s your sense of
SAMPLEShere’s nothing wrong with “those stories,” Ishmael. Where’s your sense of
history. For goodness’ sake, where’s your sense of adventure? So, Joshua,
SAMPLEShistory. For goodness’ sake, where’s your sense of adventure? So, Joshua, what story would you like to hear?
SAMPLESwhat story would you like to hear?
38 One Night In Bethlehem
3: ... and I’m getting the feeling that your father might not want to hear it right now ...
1: Thank you for noticing, Caleb.
3: ... so I’m going to tell you another story ... a story I don’t think I’ve ever told you before. It’s a story that took place right here in Bethlehem—a story of sneaky entries and surprising endings ... and a shepherd boy just about your age.
2: Really?
3: Really. You see, Joshua, many, many years ago a man came sneaking into Bethlehem.
2: Why was he sneaking?
3: He was sneaking so that the king, Saul, would not know what he was doing.
2: What was he doing, Uncle Caleb?
3: He had secretly come to Bethlehem to anoint a new king.
2:Eventhoughtherealreadywasaking?
1: Joshua, let your uncle tell the story.
3: It’s okay, Ishmael. Yes, Joshua. The man’s name was Samuel ...
2: The great judge?
3: Yes. God had spoken to Samuel ... had told him to come to Bethlehem ... had told him to anoint a new king.
2: It was David, wasn’t it?
3: Yes, but Samuel didn’t know that yet. Samuel went to the house of a man named Jesse, just as the Lord had told him to do. One of Jesse’s sons was the man God had chosen to be king.
CREATIVE
. You see, Joshua, many, many years ago a man came sneaking into
CREATIVE
. You see, Joshua, many, many years ago a man came sneaking into
was sneaking so that the king, Saul, would not know what he was
CREATIVE
was sneaking so that the king, Saul, would not know what he was
etly come to Bethlehem to anoint a new king.
CREATIVE etly come to Bethlehem to anoint a new king.
COMMUNICATIONS
story of sneaky entries and surprising endings ... and a shepherd boy just COMMUNICATIONS
story of sneaky entries and surprising endings ... and a shepherd boy just about your age.
COMMUNICATIONS
about your age.
2:
COMMUNICATIONS
2: Really?
COMMUNICATIONS
Really?
Really
COMMUNICATIONS
Really. You see, Joshua, many, many years ago a man came sneaking into
COMMUNICATIONS
. You see, Joshua, many, many years ago a man came sneaking into Really. You see, Joshua, many, many years ago a man came sneaking into Really
COMMUNICATIONS
Really. You see, Joshua, many, many years ago a man came sneaking into ReallyBethlehem.
COMMUNICATIONS
Bethlehem.
Why was he sneaking?
COMMUNICATIONS
Why was he sneaking?
was sneaking so that the king, Saul, would not know what he was
COMMUNICATIONS
was sneaking so that the king, Saul, would not know what he was
What was he doing, Uncle Caleb?
COMMUNICATIONS
What was he doing, Uncle Caleb?
etly come to Bethlehem to anoint a new king.
COMMUNICATIONS
etly come to Bethlehem to anoint a new king.
COMMUNICATIONS
king?
COMMUNICATIONS
king?
, Ishmael. Yes, Joshua. The man’s name was Samuel ...
COMMUNICATIONS
, Ishmael. Yes, Joshua. The man’s name was Samuel ...
es. God had spoken to Samuel ... had told him to come to Bethlehem ...
COMMUNICATIONS es. God had spoken to Samuel ... had told him to come to Bethlehem ...
es, but Samuel didn’t know that yet. Samuel went to the house of a man
COMMUNICATIONS es, but Samuel didn’t know that yet. Samuel went to the house of a man
SAMPLES
He SAMPLES
He was sneaking so that the king, Saul, would not know what he was SAMPLES
was sneaking so that the king, Saul, would not know what he was doing.SAMPLES
doing.
What was he doing, Uncle Caleb?
SAMPLES
What was he doing, Uncle Caleb?
He had secr
SAMPLES
He had secretly come to Bethlehem to anoint a new king.
SAMPLES
etly come to Bethlehem to anoint a new king.
SAMPLESthere
SAMPLESthere already
SAMPLESalready was
SAMPLESwas
Joshua, let your uncle tell the story
SAMPLESJoshua, let your uncle tell the story
, Ishmael. Yes, Joshua. The man’s name was Samuel ...
SAMPLES, Ishmael. Yes, Joshua. The man’s name was Samuel ...
es. God had spoken to Samuel ... had told him to come to Bethlehem ...
SAMPLESes. God had spoken to Samuel ... had told him to come to Bethlehem ...