From Babylon to Bethlehem

500 Years to the Coming of the Christ

"A Story of Tears, Prayers and Longing"

After Cyrus the Persian conquered Babylon and much of the ancient world, he issued a momentous decree in 538 B.C. allowing the Jews to go back to Judea. The next year a small, brave band began the trek back to the ruin of their country. They rebuilt the Temple, the walls of Jerusalem, their broken lives. All around were hostile enemies. Yet the people survived. Their faith survived, awaiting the fulfillment of ancient prophecies. The Greeks followed the Persians; and after a brief period of independence under the Maccabbees and a kingdom that failed, the Romans came, establishing the murderous tyrant Herod the Great.

Yet through the long years, the pious of Israel cried out for the promised Messiah. This is their story – 500 years that changed the world – with a message for us.

An adult Scripture study to make the Christmas Story come alive!

Six lessons with David Higbee

For more information on these or other St. Irenaeus offerings, call 288-1618.