SHSU professor reflects on service, community, and fifteen years of volunteering at Journey Through Bethlehem
A Professor Who Finds Joy in Bethlehem
Huntsville knows Dr. Darren Grant as an economics professor at Sam Houston State University, but each December he becomes something entirely different: a barefooted “tax collector” at Journey Through Bethlehem. Grant shared how the annual Christmas tradition—complete with robes, coins, and cold concrete—has become one of his favorite acts of service during the show’s quarterly “Nooks and Crannies” segment, where community members highlight the unexpected sides of Huntsville life.
Fifteen Years Serving at the Gate
Grant’s involvement began about fifteen years ago when he attended what he thought would be a large board meeting. Instead, he found only two people in the room and realized how much rebuilding the event needed at the time. Since then, he has watched it grow through persistence, volunteer passion, and leadership that keeps multiple churches moving in the same direction.
How the Event Rebuilt Itself
Journey Through Bethlehem, originally launched by Wesley United Methodist Church, went through seasons of burnout before regaining momentum. Grant credits organizers like Jana Brown for their ability to unify volunteers, manage logistics, and treat every participant like their contribution matters.
The Economics Behind a Living Nativity
Grant said the event is intentionally affordable. The “tax collector” booth represents the historical census in Luke 2, but the actual cost—two dollars per person—is designed so every family can attend. He explained that while the price is low, the behind-the-scenes expenses remain high, including fairground rental, animals, materials, and insurance. Additional support comes from the “out-of-Bethlehem” gift area visitors pass through after exiting the city.
A Personal Favorite: Banana Bread
Grant joked that while he strives to let others shop first, he always buys leftover banana bread. The gift tables offer items such as ornaments, baked goods, shirts, and handmade pieces that help offset event costs without compromising the authenticity inside Bethlehem.
Finding the Right Role Over the Years
Over time, Grant has taken on various responsibilities, but the tax booth suits him best. The role is mostly improvisational, giving him freedom to add humor. One of his favorite lines begins with the classic saying, “There’s only one sure thing in life…” before interrupting the expected answer of “death” with “taxes.”
Sandals, Cold Floors, and Warm Community
Grant laughed about the discomfort of wearing sandals in December—dirty toes in warm weather and frozen toes in cold weather—but said the joy of interacting with families far outweighs the inconvenience.
Seeing Service Through a New Lens
Grant spoke about noticing everyday acts of service more as he has grown older. He praised public servants like Walker County Tax Assessor-Collector Diana McRae and her team, describing their work as an example of excellence in roles that often go unnoticed. He said Journey Through Bethlehem reflects the same spirit: volunteers using their strengths to create something meaningful for the community.
Why Families Return Year After Year
Grant recommends guests plan for at least 90 minutes inside the event. Children can take their time at shops, from brick-making to dough-kneading, before reaching the manger. He said the flexible pace is part of what makes Journey Through Bethlehem special—families can move slowly, ask questions, and fully experience each scene.
A Warm Welcome at the Gate
As crowds arrive each December, visitors can expect Grant at the front gate, coins in hand, ready to deliver his signature line with a grin:
“Two dollars a head. Welcome to Bethlehem.”