Breath-taking! and Elaborate!
Picture yourself strolling through the streets of Jerusalem during Holy Week, reminiscing about the wonders and happenings leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion and his ultimate sacrifice at Calvary.
Meanwhile, in Statesboro, Georgia, the residents of Bethany embraced a unique opportunity and made the most of the moment!
Celebration- He is Risen – The residents of Bethany. Jerri Mathis
Jerri Mathis, the Director of Engagement, sought to infuse this Easter with deeper significance for ‘The Lodge’ and its residents. “It is truly an honor to partake in an endeavor that will bring blessings to others. After much brainstorming, the concept of the ‘Journey: A Walk through Jesus’ Life’ was born,” shared Mathis. Collaborating with various churches such as Statesboro Primitive Baptist, Little Ogeechee Baptist, and Believers of Statesboro was instrumental in materializing the envisioned ‘Jerusalem Village’.
Supported by a dedicated team of 45 to 50 volunteers, staff members, and friends of the ‘Bethany Community’, the ‘Life of Jesus’ was vividly portrayed. Haley McNure, Coordinator of The Cottages of Bethany, remarked, “Many Cottage residents have a strong desire to contribute. Several residents generously donated decorative items and volunteered their time.”
The volunteers, alongside guiding and assisting the residents on this spiritual journey, also lent props and costumes to enhance the experience. “We are immensely grateful for the generosity of those who lent us props and costumes,” Mathis expressed.
Izzy Peterson with her grandmother Kim Woods. Michele LeBlanc
The residents of The Lodge at Bethany had been captivated by the series ‘The Chosen’ and found it enriching. The immersive experience of ‘Embarking on the Journey’ added a layer of realism to their viewing experience. Witnessing their familiar surroundings transformed into a Jerusalem Village and Marketplace with 12 distinct stations/booths was a delight.
Excitement filled the air as residents selected their biblical attire, embodying travelers or villagers prepared to ‘Embark on the Journey’. Divided into small groups with guides, they embarked on the enlightening experience. Each station/booth offered either videos, media presentations, brief narratives, or interactive activities like fishing or reenacting the last supper. A symbolic gift awaited them at each station, enhancing the authenticity of the journey.
The Lodge at Bethany. Michele LeBlanc
The 12 stations encompassed pivotal moments such as the Birth of Jesus, Miracles, Sermon on the Mount, Palm Sunday, Crucifixion, and the glorious moment of ‘He is Risen!!’. The culminating Celebration Feast in the dining room featured tables adorned with rich purple tablecloths, golden accents, and a bell signaling the arrival of servers bearing trays of delectable treats including grapes, cheeses, hummus, pita, crackers, and olives.
Each resident received a special treat – a handcrafted tomb symbolizing ‘He is Risen’, accompanied by a miniature edible Bible. Regina Bell, the Executive Director of Bethany, expressed, “This event is a labor of love for everyone involved, be it volunteers or staff. Easter holds profound significance, and we are privileged to showcase Jesus’ love to our residents, culminating in his ultimate sacrifice and resurrection.”
In conclusion, Mathis emphasized, “Our volunteers are the Heart of Bethany! Their presence brings immense joy to our staff and residents. We are endlessly grateful for their invaluable contributions to our organization.”