During the Christmas season, nativity (manger) scenes are commonplace in our churches and in many of our homes. Both Popes Benedict and Francis have invited us to ponder the spiritual message that these nativity scenes convey.

“When we gaze upon the nativity scene, the Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph do not appear to be a very privileged family. Their child was born amidst great hardship. Yet they are full of joy because they love one another, they help one another, and, above all, they trust that God is at work in the story of their lives...”
 Pope Benedict XVI

“The shepherds become the first to see the most essential thing of all is the gift of salvation.”

“The Kings (Magi) teach us that people can come to Christ by a very long route...”

“The manger (feeding trough) in which Jesus was laid, proclaims in a meek yet powerful way, the need for sharing with the poor as the path to a more humane world in which no one is excluded or marginalized.”

“The nativity scene is a living gospel rising up from the pages of sacred Scripture proclaiming the humility of God who became man in order to encounter every man and woman.”
 Pope Francis

During these uncertain and anxious times, the Nativity scene reminds us that God is with us amidst our challenges.

As you pass by the nativity scene in our church during this Christmas season and gaze upon the Holy Family, please pray for all the diverse families that make up our parish community. May they experience the love of God amidst all the joys and sorrows of life’s journey.