“Wow!”

That was Debbie Milecki’s reaction when she attended last year’s “A Night in Bethlehem” in Holy Eucharist Parish, Tabernacle.

Milecki, coordinator of religious education in St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, Whiting, soon decided that the Advent journey staged by a growing number of parishes around the country would be right at home about 30 miles to the north in the Whiting section of Manchester.

“I just felt excited by the event and thought wow, we could bring that to our parish and have it open to everyone in the community,” said Milecki, who is hoping scores will visit and “get the feeling of Advent and connect with the faith.”

And so, one year later, area Christians will be about to experience life as it was 2,000 years ago on Dec. 10, 11 and 12 in a Bethlehem recreated by more than 40 volunteers and scores of children from the parish religious education program.

A Night in Bethlehem will unfold in the parish hall from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., Dec. 10 and 11 and from 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. Dec. 12.

“A census will be taken. Everyone will be counted and taxed 4 shekels ($1) per person according to law,” said Milecki. “Travelers will be able to watch as shepherds tend their flock. We are expecting a donkey and some goats and hoping to have some sheep on hand.

“We have so many people working, doing everything from building small ‘shops’ to baking bread. The whole community is coming together to help set up the village and we have all the kids from religious education from sixth to eighth grades playing parts. The young people in the youth ministry will be taking part as well.

“People will be able to follow the star and visit the Holy Family,” she said.

They will also be able to stop by the “Madagascar Café” where they can buy authentic Middle Eastern food (child-friendly selections will also be available).

“It’s a wonderful way to prepare for the coming of Jesus and experience the real meaning of Christmas,” said Milecki.

For more information, call 732-350-7391 or visit www.seaswhiting.org