CENTRAL CHRISTIAN Live pageant to return for Christmas

A 'tax' collected at the beginning of the journey pays for a light meal.
WARREN -- Area residents are invited to experience the true meaning of Christmas this year by taking a "Journey to Bethlehem," a step back in time that retraces the path followed by Mary and Joseph to the birth place of the Christ child.
This year represents a return of the annual live Christmas pageant, which is being presented Dec. 4 and 5 by Central Christian Church, 2051 E. Market St.
In previous years, hundreds of people have made the journey through the church's East Market and Belvedere Street location, transformed for the presentation to represent the birthplace of Christ.
Travelers on the journey will be met by enrollers for Caesar Augustus, who will collect the "tax" of $2 per visitor.
A guide will then escort groups of six to eight travelers at a time on a walking tour throughout the church's three-story interior. Along the way, those making the journey will meet the angels, townspeople, King Herod, shepherds, three wise men and innkeepers, all portrayed by costumed actors and actresses from the congregation. Church organist Brenda Pringle will provide music.
Ends at the stable
The journey, which takes about 20 minutes, will culminate with the arrival at the stable, where Mary and Joseph have found shelter for themselves and the newborn Jesus.
To conclude the trip, travelers will gather in the church fellowship hall for a light supper in celebration of the birth of the Messiah. The cost of the meal in included in the tax collected at the journey's start.
Because of the popularity of this annual Christmas event, reservations are necessary and are being accepted at the church office, (330) 372-1676, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Departure times are every 10 minutes beginning at 5 p.m. Dec. 4-5. The last journey is scheduled for 6:50 p.m.