By Jeremy Weldon

Pastor Tim Ellis said work is almost complete on the ride-thru Live Nativity scenes the members of Bethany Baptist Church build and present each year the week before Christmas.

The Christmas presentation is one of the largest ministries the church hosts for the people of Panola County each year. The church is located at the corner of Eureka and Hubbard Rds. just east of Batesville. This year’s program is Tuesday, Dec. 18,  at 6:30 p.m. and will include children and adults at various scenes spread around the property.

Live animals have always been part of the Live Nativity scenes, including the standard donkeys and sheep. For several years the events also featured a llama that provided extra entertainment, but Pastor Ellis said the llama is no longer part of the presentation, citing its delight in biting other participants and tendency to escape its handlers.

Visitors to the Live Nativity are greeted with hot cocoa and homemade cookies and then board a decorated wagon-style trailer with seating for about 30 adults and children. The trailer travels from scene to scene making a long loop that brings riders back to the front of the church for more refreshments.

Each trip takes about 25 minutes and Ellis said he and others will make the round as long as groups are waiting to ride. Hundreds go through the scenes each season. Along the way, riders are able to view the life of Jesus from birth to death at various stopping points. All of the displays are themed and most have music as part of the presentation.

Some families have made a Christmas tradition of attending the Live Nativity each year, many coming from Lafayette and Yalobusha Counties. Ellis said all of Panola County and surrounding areas are invited to the event. He said there is plenty of parking available and enough hot chocolate and cookies for everyone.

Assistance for the elderly and handicapped will be provided. The pastor said other churches and organizations are invited to bring groups, and arrangements can be made to accommodate any special needs.

Additional information about the Live Nativity is available by calling 934-6155 or 934-6613.