The waiting room of Dentist Robert Berstecher on East Main Street in New Holland, Pennsylvania, was transformed into a Christmas reading room during the New Holland Merchants Association’s annual “Christmas on Main” celebration.
Members of the First Baptist Church of New Holland took turns reading the Christmas story from Luke 2:1-20. In all, ten readers, including guest reader, Dr. Robert Berstecher, took turns reading. The story was read 32 times in 5 1/2 hours, with almost 300 people hearing the story of the true meaning of Christmas.
Each person who listened to the story received a small gift bag, including a Candy Cane and a “Legend of the Candy Cane” Gospel tract. Adults received a church brochure that also includes the Gospel, a church pen, and an invitation to the Christmas Eve Service. Children’s gift bags included a bookmark and a homemade “Santa Manger Sketch.” The Sketch shows an outline of Santa Claus, that when turned over becomes a manger scene. An explanation appears on the back of the picture.
The Bible Character Simeon (portrayed by Pastor Jack Peters) and other church members were busy outside inviting people to come in and hear the story. The response was encouraging, as adults, children, and teens came in and heard the Christmas Story. A few even said that this was the first time they had heard it.
While there were no decisions, the outreach gave the church visibility in the community and put the Gospel in the hands of a few hundred people. This event also encouraged our church family to continue outreaches into the Community. The Evangelism Grant from the BRN was appreciated and was used towards a custom made banner, literature, and gifts.
