‘Journey to Bethlehem’ begins in halls of Prairie Village church Friday

The journey ends with a baby born in a Bethlehem manger.

The congregation of Southminster Presbyterian Church in Prairie Village on Thursday put the final touches on this year’s presentation of “Journey to Bethlehem,” its annual interactive telling of the Christmas story.

Churchmembers practiced their roles as key characters in the story, from King Herrod to the innkeeper to Mary and Joseph.

The popular annual event draws around 700 attendees each year.

This year’s performances run 6-9 p.m. Friday and 5-8 p.m. Saturday. Admission is free and the event is open to the public.

The three wise men in King Herrod’s court.

Vendors sell their wares in a Jerusalem market.

A guard stands in front of the Nazareth tax collector.