PICTURES: Unique 'Walk to Bethlehem' brings the Christmas Story to Life in Roscrea

The unique procession winds through the Franciscan Friary and continued through historic Roscrea. Photo: PJ Wright

placeholder image — The unique procession winds through the Franciscan Friary and continued through historic Roscrea. Photo: PJ Wright

The much anticipated Roscrea tradition is like no other

The much anticipated annual live nativity event 'The Walk to Bethlehem' took place in Roscrea on Saturday (Dec 14) bringing the Christmas story to life for the local community.

This beloved tradition, organised by the four churches in Roscrea – St. Cronan's Catholic Church, The Church of Ireland, The Methodist Church, and Oasis Elim Church – attracted a large crowd who journeyed through the scenes of the nativity.

The walk began at St. Cronan's Catholic Church, where Transition Year students from Coláiste Phobal took centre stage. The scene featured Mary and Joseph receiving the Good News from the angels about the birth of Jesus.

Visitors were given goodie bags containing information about the full Christmas story and what to expect during the walk. Outside, Rodney, the donkey, awaited, ready to accompany the group on their journey to the next scene.

The second stop was at The Church of Ireland, where the innkeepers greeted the crowd.

Pictured above are Diana Istrati (Mary) sitting on Rodney the donkey, James Kelly (Joseph), Nkosi, Joel, Jonathan,Micheal as the Shepherds. Photo: PJ Wright

There, children participated in crafting activities, while adults engaged in a prayer walk, reflecting on the Christmas season.

An opportunity for visitors to leave prayer requests was provided, with the promise that each church would pray over them.

At the Methodist Church, the third scene, attendees were greeted by a warm fire and shepherds gathered around it. The community choir filled the air with beautiful Christmas carols, bringing a sense of joy and unity to the event.

The walk culminated at Oasis Elim Church, where Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus were waiting. Rodney the donkey and some sheep completed the nativity scene.

The church choir led the audience in a heartfelt rendition of Christmas carols, with everyone joining in song to celebrate the season. Following the performance, attendees gathered at the Oasis Centre for refreshments, enjoying a well-earned rest after their journey through Bethlehem.

This successful event was made possible by the collaboration of the four churches and their dedicated congregations. A special thanks goes to the clergy of St. Cronan’s Catholic Church, Rev. Jane of the Church of Ireland, Rev. Denis of the Methodist Church, and Pastor Pam of Oasis Elim Church. The event would not have been possible without their leadership and support.

Pictured above are the Shepherds (back l to r) Joel, Micheal Nkosi and Jonathan and front are Hadassah, Deborah and Candice enjoying the unique event in Roscrea

Thanks also go to the Community Choir for providing the wonderful music that added to the festive atmosphere.

Lastly, a heartfelt thank you to Ann Marie Mulrooney and the Transition Year students from Coláiste Phobal, as well as the youth from the churches for providing the cast and making the event truly memorable.

Pictured above are Diana Istrati (Mary) on Rodney the donkey, led by Roisín Maher and James Kelly (Joseph). Photo: PJ Wright