Ladies’ Guild Family Crèche Festival

Come to the Manger. Our First Crèche Festival.

Spread Love and Light. 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.

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.

We know a manger, a Crèche, is a representation of the birth 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, miniature to up to life size.

The Ladies’ Guild of the Whaling City Catholic Community is sponsoring the first ever Family Crèche Festival, celebrating the art and true meaning of the Nativity, on Saturday, December 3rd from 3:00 until 6:00 p.m. and Sunday, December 4th from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Holy Name Parish Center at 121 Mt. Pleasant Street in New Bedford, Massachusetts.

Families and individuals of the Whaling City Catholic Community are invited to set up and display their Crèches for these two days, as well as provide some insight as to the significance of their Crèche to family or heritage, through either a poster or a presentation.

Space is somewhat limited so applications must be submitted no later than November 27.

All participants must sign the Diocese of Fall River’s Adult Hold Harmless/Indemnity Agreement as well as submitting an application.

The flame of the Bethlehem Peace Light will be available to everyone to take home and there will be seasonal photo backdrops set up to allow you to take pictures with your families.

Children and adults are even invited to dress in period costume as shepherds or townspeople.

The Ladies’ Guild kitchen will also be open for purchase of food and bake goods.

Admission for the public will be one non-perishable food item for the St. Vincent de Paul food pantry.