null
lock plus

Nativities

Scenes of the nativity all trace their roots to St. Francis of Assisi, who in 1223 organized the first known representation of the Holy Night. Live animals filled a humble stable and members of the surrounding communities, regardless of status or wealth, played the parts of the Holy Family, Shepherds, and Wise Men. The meaning behind the re-enactment was clear: The Child was God's gift to all.