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December 17, 2020A centuries old tradition of inspirational Nativity scenes continues to spark devotion and belief in the hearts and souls of those throughout the archdiocese and beyond.
The Nativity recreation, whether a living outdoor version or in decorative sets smaller than a book cover, remains part of the Christmas season and is a reminder of Jesus’ birth in a humble stable in Bethlehem.
The familiar figures from the gospels of Matthew and Luke include the angels, shepherds, camels, stable animals, Magi and the Holy Family of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph and the infant Jesus.
Pope Francis weighed in on the tradition this past year.
"The depiction of Jesus' birth is itself a simply and joyful proclamation of the mystery of the incarnation of the Son of God," the Holy Father wrote.
Mary Jekel of Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church in Edmond fondly recalled the set she received many Christmases ago. Jekel's husband, coincidentally, is named Joseph.
"Joe's mom and dad gave us one for our first anniversary," she recalled. "It reminded us of what a special gift God gave us, Jesus Christ our Savior.”
After 30 years of wear and tear, they replaced it with an ornament of the Holy Family, now hanging on their tree.
John Thomas attends Saint Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church in Jones. Thomas said he appreciates the beauty of the Nativity.
"I like to think (the Nativity scene) helps remind people what the real reason for the season is, especially this year. It will instill a spirit of peace and joy into people's lives," Thomas said. "Little kids love seeing and hearing about baby Jesus."
A fellow parishioner, Glenn Nead, agreed.
"I enjoy Nativity scenes," he said. "They are an oasis of calm in the rush and help bring devotion to the birth of our Lord who humbled himself to save us."
He wasn't sure if Saint Robert's would set up the beautiful scene this year because of COVID, but many families continued the tradition at the parish.
Deacon Paul Lewis of Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Mustang said families in the parish have outdoor scenes and the church Nativity scene will be set up after the last Advent celebration.
On the recently concluded third Advent Sunday, Holy Spirit had another special tradition. It's called "the blessing of the Bambinelli” as the baby Jesus is called in Italy. Parishioners, mostly children bring a replica baby Jesus for the blessing. In years past, many children lovingly clutch their baby Jesuses and take them to the altar for the blessing.
The tradition of the Nativity had its origin with Saint Francis of Assisi in the Italian town of Greccio during the 13th century. Saint Francis's idea has spread worldwide with millions of observances. Pope Francis remains a staunch advocate.
"It is my hope that this custom will never be lost and that, wherever it has fallen into disuse, it can be rediscovered and revived."
Steve Gust is a freelance writer for the Sooner Catholic.
Photo: Archbishop Beltran’s Nativity scene. Photo Diane Clay/Sooner Catholic.
Blessing of a Christmas manger or nativity scene
God of every nation and people,
from the very beginning of creation
you have made manifest your love:
when our need for a Savior was great
you sent your Son to be born of the Virgin Mary.
To our lives he brings joy and peace,
justice, mercy and love.
Lord,
bless all who look upon this manger;
may it remind us of the humble birth of Jesus,
and raise our thoughts to him,
who is God-with-us and Savior of all,
and who lives and reigns forever and ever.
Amen.
