Lambs, goats and large amounts of hay are quite common places at George H. Henderson Jr. at the Lufkin Expo Center. Every year, 4-H and FFA members participate. However, this Friday and Saturday night, these animals and one or a few donkeys will be part of the annual transformation event, bringing thousands of people to the Expo Center.

The First United Methodist Church of Lufkin will host their 36th Annual Gala in Old Bethlehem. From 6pm to 8pm on December 10th and 11th, invite your family to experience things that truly touch your heart and spirit.

Many Christians make a pilgrimage to Bethlehem every year to visit the area where Jesus was born. Most of us will never have the wonderful experience of visiting the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, but a trip to the Expo Center this Friday or Saturday will still fill your soul with love and understand the true meaning of this time of year.

When you and your family step into the past 2,000 years, the Expo Center will become a passage of time. When you stroll through the streets of the ancient market, you will see how residents live and work. You will meet the residents of the town where Jesus was born and learn about ancient handicrafts and skills.

Entry to the night of Old Bethlehem is free, but donations are greatly appreciated. These donations will then be used to help prepare for the next year's event.

To all the volunteers, actors and organizers of this year's event, thank you for this exquisite gift to our community!