The Nativity Crib

The Nativity Crib

A tradition that runs deep within the heart of the Catholic Church is the humble yet profound practice of erecting a Nativity Crib both in church and within the home. More than a seasonal decoration, it is a cherished sign of faith, for it invites us once again to enter into the living mystery of Emmanuel – God with us. In contemplating the Holy Crib, we are drawn to remember not only the historical birth of Christ, but the ever-present nearness of a God who chooses to dwell among His people.

Pope Benedict XVI spoke beautifully of the importance of the Crib for our devotional life and for evangelisation:

‘Following a beautiful and firmly-rooted tradition, many families set up their Crib immediately after the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, as if to relive with Mary those days full of trepidation that preceded the birth of Jesus. Putting up the Crib at home can be a simple but effective way of presenting faith, to pass it on to one’s children. 

The Crib helps us contemplate the mystery of God’s love that was revealed in the poverty and simplicity of the Bethlehem Grotto. St Francis of Assisi was so taken by the mystery of the Incarnation that he wanted to present it anew at Greccio in the living Nativity scene, thus beginning an old, popular tradition that still retains its value for evangelization today. 

Indeed, the Crib can help us understand the secret of the true Christmas because it speaks of the humility and merciful goodness of Christ, who “though he was rich he made himself poor” for us (II Cor 8: 9). 

His poverty enriches those who embrace it and Christmas brings joy and peace to those who, like the shepherds in Bethlehem, accept the Angel’s words: “Let this be a sign to you: in a manger you will find an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes” (Lk 2: 12). This is still the sign for us too, men and women of the third millennium. There is no other Christmas.’