The star of Bethlehem is a topic that evokes interest, curiosity and an element of mystery among many Christians, particularly during the Christmas season. For those who seek to gain more understanding about this special star spoken of in God’s Word, Samford University is hosting “The Star of Bethlehem” event Dec. 12, 13, 15 and 16 at its Boyd Christenberry Planetarium. Each night’s presentation begins at 7 p.m.
According to George Atchley, the planetarium’s director and host of the hourlong multimedia presentation, a program about the star was presented for many years by planetariums throughout the United States. But sometime in the 1970s, many planetariums switched to a more generic Christmas presentation, he said.
“When I first started working here (at Samford), I decided we needed to have our own show,” Atchley explained. So he constructed a version based on his own research, and the resulting presentation is what attendees will view at the planetarium.
At “The Star of Bethlehem” event, Atchley will use the planetarium’s star projector to reproduce the night sky.
The planetarium’s domed ceiling is useful for showing the motion of the sky and its patterns.
The presentation’s information will be presented with visual accompaniments such as images, special animations and a virtual journey to Jerusalem and Persia.
If you are searching for a natural explanation of what the star of Bethlehem was, then Atchley will cover various sources he feels are valid for this idea.
He also will expound on the role of the Magi cited in the Bible, where these men came from and how they grew knowledgeable of the star.
The presentation will point to the Bible and why it is significant in understanding what the star really was. “There are clues in the Scriptures,” Atchley said, referring to Matthew 2.
He added that he hopes the presentation will spark a “renewed sense of the accuracy of Scripture.”
While the show is suitable for all ages, the material may be more appreciated by ages 8 and up.
Atchley said he will make an effort to offer special arrangements for groups of 10 or more. Contact him at geatchle@samford.edu or 205-726-4139. (TAB)
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