The true meaning of Christmas can easily get lost in day-to-day distractions. One event in Chilton County invites us to pause and remember the reason for the season.

The Living Christmas Walk, a ministry of Clanton’s West End Baptist Church, is a presentation of 11 scenes depicting events in the life of Christ and other important biblical events.

The Walk will be presented Dec. 11, 12 and 13 at Goose Pond Park from 6 to 8:30 p.m. each night.

“West End Baptist believes we tell the story of Christ’s birth in a unique way and in a marvelous atmosphere that makes it worth seeing each year,” church member Sam Hayes said.

Ten of the scenes show traditional images of Christ, each told from the perspective of a biblical figure encountered by Jesus during his life. A friendly guide is there to walk groups of people through each scene.

The other scene changes from year to year. In 2008, this scene was narrated by one of the first-born children of Israel. He told the story of how the lamb’s blood had saved him on the night of Passover.

“This year we will go back to the Old Testament again,” Hayes said. “The story of Jesus and what He means to us has deep roots in the stories of the Old Testament.”

Well over 300 church members put on the event each year, including lead actors, supporting roles, costumes, scene design, and even live animals.

Live music from the West End Baptist Church Hand Bell Choir entertains people waiting in line, while volunteers serve hot chocolate inside the park.

Coordinators expect 700 or more people each night. The Clanton Police Explorers will coordinate parking each night.

“The Walk is a great way to get your Christmas season started with a clear understanding of what Christmas truly means,” Hayes said. “It also provides an excellent way to share the story of Christ with friends and family who have yet to understand what Christ is about.

“Whatever your motivation for coming, the candlelit walk through Goose Pond Park, great fellowship, and refreshing hot chocolate make this a ‘must do’ for the Christmas season.”