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December 6, 2016
We have an extra reason to be excited for Christmas this year: St. Philip's recently obtained a new Nativity scene!
Our new set is made up of 13 figures, including the Holy Family, angels, Wise Men, animals, and a shepherd. The figures are 2/3 life-size, beautifully painted and detailed, and will be a treasure for our parish for years to come.
As you might have noticed, preparations have already begun in the Church for the Nativity scene (even as we are preparing a place in our hearts for Christ this Advent). A platform has been constructed over the Baptismal font, which has been carefully drained and dried. The new manger scene will gradually take shape on this platform, and be ready in time for the celebration of Christmas ( click here for Christmas Mass times).
Why do we have a Nativity Scene?
The first known representation of the Nativity of Our Lord was made by St. Francis of Assisi in the 13th Century, an event recorded by his near-contemporary, St. Bonaventure. St. Francis, understanding our human need for tangible reminders of the events of our salvation, set up a manger with an ox and donkey and preached to the people about the birth of Christ, the "poor King". This special Christmas devotion spread throughout the world; 800 years later, we still use it to recall the humble birth of our King, Jesus Christ, a wondrous act of Divine Love for our sake.