Come to the Manger! Join Us in Our Community Celebration of the Nativity!
Since a new star first appeared above Bethlehem, Christmas has been a season of light, reminding us that Jesus Christ is the light of the world. Together, we can celebrate His birth by making the world a brighter place. All we have to do is follow Him—His life, His example and His teachings. In doing so, we can help Bring Peace to the World.
We know a Nativity or Manger scene, also known as a Crèche, is a representation of the birthplace of Jesus that usually includes the infant in a manger, Mary, Joseph, shepherds, wise men and animals – although
some include a variety of other figures representing all who come to the stable. The figures may be carved, painted, sculpted, from miniature up to life size.
Saint Francis of Assisi in 1223 sought permission from the Pope to do something “for the kindling of devotion” to the birth of Christ. As part of his preparations, Francis “made ready a manger and hay, together with an ox and an ass” in the small Italian town of Greccio… the first Manger scene.
The Women’s Guild at Holy Name of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in New Bedford is sponsoring our Fifth Annual Family Crèche Festival, celebrating the art and true meaning of the Nativity, open to the public on Saturday, December 6th from 3:00 until 6:00 p.m. and Sunday, December 7th from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in the Holy Name Parish Center at 121 Mt. Pleasant Street in New Bedford, Massachusetts.
Families, individuals or groups from any Parish or Catholic school in the New Bedford area are invited to set up and display their Crèche/Manger for these two days, as well as provide some insight as to the significance of their Manger/Crèche to their family or heritage through either a poster or a presentation.
Space is somewhat limited so for planning purposes an application must be submitted to the Women’s Guild at Holy Name Church no later than December 1st (click here for application).
- The flame of the Bethlehem Peace Light and free candles will be available to everyone to take home.
- There will be seasonal photo backdrop set up to allow you to take pictures with your families.
- There will be Blessed Straw that a family may place within their own Manger or at home.
- Children and adults are invited to dress in period costume as shepherds or townspeople.
- The Ladies’ Guild kitchen will also be open for purchase of light refreshments and baked goods.
- Members from any Parish are invited to participate with their own crèche.
The public is asked to donate one non-perishable food item for the St. Vincent de Paul food pantry.