'ROAD TO BETHLEHEM' OPEN OFF HWY. 31 N
The Bethlehem United Methodist Church’s “Road to Bethlehem” display is now open and will remain open through Jan. 1.
The annual event includes approximately 30 scenes and scriptures placed along Bethlehem Road, off Hwy. 31 North just outside Lonoke, which tell the story of Christ’s birth.
“Since it began in 1987, the exhibit has been a popular destination for visitors from all over central Arkansas. The memories are often shared about families driving down Bethlehem Road and enjoying the Christmas story together. The true meaning of Christmas comes to life,” a news release from the church said.
“The lighted displays are wonderful to see at night, but the scenes are also enjoyed on daytime drives. We invite you and friends, large groups, church buses and senior groups to enjoy the ‘Road to Bethlehem’ this season,” it continued.
Bethlehem United Methodist Church will also hold musical programs and open houses with refreshments at 7 p.m. Dec. 17-19.
• The Finest Forte Chorale from Carlisle, an award-winning youth vocal ensemble, performs on Thursday, Dec. 17.
• Bethlehem UMC musicians will perform Friday, Dec. 18.
• Hallelujah Harmony will perform Saturday, Dec. 19.
The church is at 2540 Bethlehem Road.
JACKSONVILLE THEATER GROUP CANCELS FIRST SHOWS
The newly formed Community Theater of Jacksonville canceled its first two performances of “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever,” which were set for Friday and Saturday. Shows are still scheduled to be held at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18 and Saturday, Dec. 19 at the Jacksonville Lighthouse Charter School, 251 N. First St.
Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets, which will be for sale at the door, are $15 for adults, $13 for seniors and military and $10 for students. Seating is first come, first served.
“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” is based on the children’s book by Barbara Robinson and features a lively cast of children and adults. It will be directed by Shann Nobles, who spearheaded the start of the community theater.
The Community Theater of Jacksonville plans to have four productions a year. To reserve seats if needed, or for more information, email communitytheaterofjacksonville@gmail.com or call 501-743-2985.
CHRISTMAS CRAFTS FAIR SATURDAY AT BEEBE ARMORY
A Christmas crafts fair will be held from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Saturday at the Beebe National Guard Armory on Center Street.
The event is a fundraiser for Beebe High School’s Project Graduation, an all-night, chaperoned, drug- and alcohol-free celebration for the class of 2016.
Organizers are seeking artists, vendors and craftsmen to participate. To reserve a booth, call Kelly Woods at 501-882-9221 or Kim Pruitt at 501-288-2096.
Project Graduation takes place after graduation on the high school campus. There are games and free food, and every senior gets a gift. The event is fully paid for with fundraising by parents and students.
JACKSONVILLE NAACP MEETING AT 3 P.M. SUNDAY
The Jacksonville chapter of the NAACP will hold its monthly meeting at 3 p.m. Sunday in Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church’s Johnson Education Center at 1013 Ray Road.
For more information, call 501-982-7752.
TEA PARTY MEETS THURSDAY AT CABOT RESTAURANT
The Arkansas Constitutional Tea Party will meet at 7 p.m. Thursday at Papa’s Place, 2798 S. Second St. in Cabot in the South Fork Shopping Center.
The group meets on the second Thursday of the month.
For more information, call 501-813-6980. The meetings are open to the public.
GARDEN CLUB MEETING MONDAY IN JACKSONVILLE
The Jacksonville Garden Club will meet at noon Monday at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 2413 Northeastern Ave. in Jacksonville. For more information, call 501-533-7708.
SHERWOOD CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS CONTEST
Keep Sherwood Beautiful will be taking nominations for its Christ-mas decoration contest through Monday, Dec. 14. Winners will be announced Dec. 15. To nominate a home for the award, call 501-835-4966 or email ksbarkansas@gmail.com.
JACKSONVILLE UMC CHRISTMAS CONCERT SUNDAY
Jacksonville First United Methodist Church’s children’s choir will present a program called “Christmas in Black and White” at 10:30 a.m. Sunday during a unity worship service. It will be followed by a Christmas potluck lunch.
The church’s chancel choir will present its Christmas program, “Let Us Be Joy,” at the 8:30 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 20.
For more information, call 501-982-8176.
JACKSONVILLE FIRST ASSEMBLY HOSTS 'ONE HEART'
Jacksonville First Assembly of God will host a performance at 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20 by “One Heart,” who will minister with bluegrass Christmas music. The event will also include a children’s drama presentation of the Christmas story and a Christmas reception in the fellowship hall.
Everyone is invited to attend, Rev. Royce L. Lowe said.
The church is at 221 N. Elm St.
