If you ever get a chance to visit Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, there is a wonderful place called The Mennonite Information Center,
While learning about the Mennonite and Amish history might sound like a fun trip in and of itself, the reason it is a wonderful place is not because of its Mennonite and Amish tours but its full-sized Biblical Tabernacle reproduction.
With the Tabernacle Reproduction, biblical history comes alive. It is open all year but can be seen only by a guided 45 minute lecture tour.
The Biblical tabernacle reproduction was created in the late 1940's as the "Moses Tabernacle in the Wilderness," by a Baptist minister in St. Petersburg, Florida. Mennonites later purchased the replica and eventually joined it with the Mennonite Information Center. For over 50 years this exhibit has been invaluable for students of Bible and cultural studies. Thousands of people visit the Biblical Tabernacle each year.
The tabernacle replica is housed in a building with a contoured upward ceiling and an acoustically pleasing atmosphere. Presentation guides versed in the scriptural context and significance of the tabernacle and its furniture lead you in conversation from the Brazen Altar just inside the eastern gate of the courtyard to the Ark of the Covenant in the Holy of Holies. Even if you know little about Biblical history, this presentation is fascinating. But for those who know, this makes the story come to life.
As you enter the Holy Place, a full-size, wax figure of the high priest presides over the altar of incense. His authentic robes have precious stones imbedded in gold on his breastplate. The Golden Candlestick, and Table of Shew Bread are made-to-scale. A fully researched design of the veil separates the people from the presence of God just like in olden times. Many people of different religious, ethnic and cultural backgrounds find this lecture tour of the Biblical tabernacle reproduction the high point of their visit to Lancaster County.
Admission prices:
Adults $6.50
Senior citizens(60+ years) $6.00
Children(7-12 years) $4.00
Children 6 years and under No charge
Groups (12 or more, with one person paying for the whole group) $6.00/person
School student groups $4.00/student
One teacher complimentary with 15 paying students
Contact information:
Mennonite Information Center,
2209 Millstream Rd.
Lancaster, PA 17602
Phone: 717-299-0954
You can make group reservations with credit card by calling : (717) 299-0954.
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Comments (4)
Very cool.
I've never been to this replica, but I have seen a full-scale replica before. My church, for youth camp several years ago, actually had us all BUILD one. The guys had to build the actual tabernacle part and then each of the groups (we were all seperated into "tribes") had to build something that goes in it (i.e. ark of the covenant, etc.). We re-enacted how the High Priest would get "ready" and then go in...we helped him get dressed in his special garmets all while learning what each one was about. It was a really cool thing they did. :)
wow that's interesting! i used to practically live in lancaster and i've never heard of this place
Even though I live about 30-some hours drive away, I've been there....twice! It's well worth seeing, and the guides are very friendly & helpful. The bookstore has some cool stuff, too.
I live in Chester County (not too far from Lancaster County) but, being not big on religion, have never been there. Come visit us southeastern PA people!!! And yes, Kennett Square IS the mushroom capital of the world. ^w^