Bethlehem, NC – The 48th annual Bethlehem Star Lighting is scheduled for Saturday, December 7, 2024, beginning at 6:30 p.m. on the campus at Mt. Pisgah Lutheran Church on Highway 127 North in Bethlehem, NC. Members of Community Christian Fellowship will lead the program. Pastor Neil Bowman will read from the Christmas story and scripture about the Bethlehem Star.
The program under the Bethlehem Star will include music by a musical praise group from Community Christian Fellowship. The lighting of the Star by Max White, a rendition of “O Beautiful Star of Bethlehem” by the choir during the star lighting, Christmas carols, and an ending prayer by Pastor Bowman at the stage near the Pavilion on the west side of Mt. Pisgah Lutheran Church.
The first segment of the Star Lighting will highlight performances of the Alexander Central Jazz Band under direction of Matt Cockran and a selection of Christmas music by the Alexander Central High School Madrigal Choir under the direction of Michelle Sullivan. Mt. Pisgah Lutheran Church member Mark Romeo will introduce the various programs during the evening festivities.
The Bethlehem Star Committee is again providing the opportunity to donate to the operation of the Bethlehem Star Lighting. The 2024 version of the Bethlehem Star Ornament includes a laser created wooden ornament which includes an engraving of Mary, Joseph, and the manger under a star. Ornaments are available for a $25.00 donation and may be received by sending a check to the Bethlehem Star Lighting, Mt. Pisgah Lutheran Church, 9379 NC Highway 127, Hickory, NC. 28601. Ornaments will then be mailed to the donor. Proceeds will be used to fund the operation of the Star, paid entertainment, and support community youth groups performing and assisting during the Star Lighting night.
Other activities in this area will include a live nativity scene under the star manned by adults and children from Community Christian Fellowship. Live animals will also be provided. Boy Scout Troop 275 will serve hot chocolate and cookies. They will also light bonfires (weather-permitting) in the area near the Star.
The Bethlehem Fire Department, Junior Firemen, Alexander County Sheriff’s Department, and Law Enforcement Explorers will assist with traffic control and parking. Special parking for handicapped visitors will be coordinated by Law Enforcement Explorers. Additional parking will be available in the Bethlehem Shopping Center lot.
Members of the Bethlehem Ministerial Association and the Bethlehem Star committee invite all visitors and community to the event ushering in the Christmas season.
Driving North in the dark on NC Highway 127 and seeing the shining Bethlehem Star provides a feeling of light and love that impact one’s spirit and hope especially in the dark days following the Hurricane Helene devastation.
