A Note Regarding "A Night in Bethlehem"

In 1997 my father Dave Watts began a tradition in Tullahoma that became a staple in our community. Every December 21, 22, and 23rd "A Night in Bethlehem took place at 108 East Grundy Street. For the past five years, I have had the joy of leading this community ministry. This year was to be our 20th year. Unfortunately, due to circumstances and decisions beyond my control, "A Night in Bethlehem" will not take place this December 21, 22, and 23rd. And in all honesty, I have no idea whether it will ever take place again.  There are young people, young adults even who do not know Christmas in Tullahoma without a visit to "A Night in Bethlehem". People came from near and far, many from other states, and many who planned their vacation around it, to experience this wonderful event that included nearly 100 volunteers and paid workers to make happen. Typically we would be in the midst of preparation for "A Night in Bethlehem" from August through December 24th when the event culminated into the packed-out Christmas Eve service where the nativity scene came to life and entered into the Worship Center. Last year was our largest attendance in all 19 years with thousands attending all three nights. It saddens me to think about the Christmas season in Tullahoma without this event that brought so many together in service, and in wonder as we reflected upon the night that Heaven came down to earth.  I share this with you as I have had many ask me via social media or in person about "A Night in Bethlehem" 2017. Regardless, even now as the Christmas decoration are popping up in our local stores, I implore you to be reminded this year, as in years past, that Christ is what Christmas is all about. I encourage you as you begin planning and buying gifts to remember "The Gift" (Jesus) that forever changed the world! And as you prepare for Christmas 2017, think more about what you can give rather than what you might receive. Think about those who are in need during this Christmas season and be the hands, feet, voice, grace, and love of Christ. In all reality, that's why we did "A Night Bethlehem" for some 19 years. We did it to serve as a reminder of what is the true meaning of Christmas... and that being Jesus! The greatest gift we can ever receive! The greatest gift we can ever share!  Finally, I want to say "Thank You" to all who worked so hard to make "A Night in Bethlehem" the community outreach it was to all who attended. Your hard work and dedication will never be forgotten. May God bless you all as you celebrate Him, not just at Christmastime, but all of the time.

Pastor Christian Watts

Watch "A Night in Bethlehem" 2015 Highlights at https://youtu.be/kqFFQyA0UN8