Event Dates
December 4–5, 2026
Volunteer With Us
There is a place for you in Bethlehem
You do not have to stand in the spotlight to become part of the story. Every actor, builder, cook, costumer, singer, helper, and prayer partner matters.
Orientation
Date to be announced
Registration
Open
Deadline
Date to be announced
Step Into the Story
Volunteers bring Bethlehem to life
Journey Through Bethlehem is built by people who give their time, talents, voices, tools, animals, prayers, and willing hands.
Some volunteers portray people from the Christmas story. Others work in the shops, sing as angels, prepare refreshments, care for costumes, build the city, help with animals, or quietly support the ministry behind the scenes.
Whether you love being in front of a crowd or would much rather work where nobody notices you, there is meaningful work to do.
Ways to Serve
Find the part that fits you
Step Into the Story
Help portray the people and scenes visitors encounter throughout Bethlehem.
- Christmas story actors
- Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus
- Shopkeepers and townspeople
- Jewish wedding party
- Inn, synagogue, and city characters
Sing and Share
Choirs and individual singers help fill the journey with the sound and wonder of Christmas.
- Choirs
- Individual singers
- Angels
- Special music support
Build Bethlehem
It takes many hands, tools, trucks, and trailers to turn an arena into a city.
- Set-up and take-down
- City walls and set pieces
- Trucks and trailers
- Carpentry and repairs
- Loading and moving supplies
Serve Behind the Scenes
Keep volunteers cared for, organized, and ready to serve throughout the event.
- Kitchen committee
- Volunteer snacks and drinks
- Hospitality and support
- Organization and cleanup
Costumes and Textiles
Help our volunteers look like they belong in Bethlehem while keeping costumes organized.
- Costume checkout
- Fittings and organization
- Washing costumes afterward
- Sewing and repairs
- Textile shop support
Animals and Special Resources
Animals and unique resources help create the sights and sounds of a living Bethlehem.
- Sheep and goats
- Donkeys or camels
- Pigeons and other suitable animals
- Handlers and animal care
- Special equipment or useful skills
Not an Actor? No Problem.
You do not have to be on stage to be part of the story
Some of the most important volunteers are the ones carrying supplies, preparing food, washing costumes, moving walls, praying, cleaning, or helping another volunteer find where they belong.
What Volunteering Looks Like
A few things to know
Choose an area
Tell us what interests you, what skills you have, and whether you prefer a visible role or behind-the-scenes work.
Receive an assignment
A steward will help connect you with an area, role, schedule, and any instructions you need.
Prepare together
Depending on your role, preparation may include orientation, costume fitting, rehearsal, setup, or communication with an area leader.
Serve with joy
Show up ready to help visitors experience the story and hope at the heart of Christmas.
Volunteer Interest
Ready to find your place?
Tell us how you would like to serve during the 2026 season. This sends a request to the Stewards; it does not create a volunteer assignment automatically.