The aim of this idea is to symbolise Mary and Joseph's journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem; to help people to get to know each other better and to encourage worship outside of church walls.

Basic idea: Mary and Joseph need accommodation - so a household in the church community offers to house them each night. The whole household take figures of Mary and Joseph to their new hosts the following night where they will welcomed and together light a candle, sing a carol and say a prayer - followed by sharing mince pies/coffee/chocolates. This is repeated each evening through advent (or the period of time that you choose) until the last family bring 'Mary and Joseph' to church on Christmas Eve where they are welcomed as part of a service.

You could also ask for a photo to be taken in each home, and show these on a PowerPoint or printed and pinned to a notice board?