About the Living Christmas Story
For a few nights each December since 1995, the parking lot of Bethany United Methodist Church in Summerville becomes the city of Bethlehem. The pavement and people are transformed into the Living Christmas Story, a drive-through re-enactment of life as it was 2,000 years ago on the night Jesus Christ was born.

Often described as beautiful and moving, the Living Christmas Story is a drive-through experience that many thousands of spectators have witnessed over the years. The presentation features 17 scenes, viewed as vehicles travel a candle-lit drive winding through the Bethany parking lot. Visitors see the angel Gabriel talking with Mary; the holy family traveling to Bethlehem; King Herod on his throne; and angels sharing the news of Christ’s birth with the shepherds in the field. On the other side of Bethlehem’s city gate, visitors watch blacksmiths, carpenters and potters in a bustling market scene. There are centurions on horseback, fishermen mending their nets, and, most importantly, Baby Jesus resting in a manger.

The Living Christmas Story is a labor of love for Bethany members, who regard at it as the church’s gift to the people of the Low Country. Last year’s props had barely been boxed away when church members began planning and coordinating this year’s event. From costumes to construction to props and lighting, every detail has been carefully plotted to ensure that the Christmas story comes to life. In 2003, more than 200 people lent their time and talents to the pageant.