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[November 28, 2012] 
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The first Nativity scene is believed to have
been created by St. Francis of Assisi in the mid- to late 13th
century. That first scene was created using living beings. The re-enactment of the birth of Christ was set in a cave in Greccio,
Italy.
In later centuries the Nativity took on the
form of art and was displayed regularly in European churches. In the 16th
century, smaller models began appearing in homes.
The first Nativity was created to remind
believers of the true meaning of Christmas, the birth of Christ. The same is true today as believers each year set out their
Nativities as a testament of what they hold in their heart at
Christmastime.
Some of the most famous
Nativity scenes can be found at the Vatican, the White House and in
Bethlehem, Pa.
Among the congregants at St. John UCC, some
of the better-known pieces are those made by local woodcarvers such
as Larry Wilham, Larry Ingram and Linda Trommer.
Pictures by Nila Smith |
