This patron saint of animals, ecology, peace, and Italy had such a deep love for The Lord that one Christmas he felt inspired to recreate a nativity scene in a stable, complete with live animals.
What is a Nativity Scene or Creche?
A nativity scene is usually a set of figurines arranged in a manger-like setting. However, real people or animals are used for some occasions. The sets range from small to large, simple to ornate, and inexpensive to costly. They are commonly used for decoration at Christmastime to commemorate the birth of Jesus.
The set usually consists of people, angels, and animals believed to have been present at Christ’s birth. Sometimes it is one solid piece, but most sets have stand alone pieces, which can be arranged according to individual taste.
Nativity scenes are used to decorate churches, homes, stores, and businesses. Some large, wooden or plastic pieces are set up outside, then lit up for nighttime display.
Saint Francis of Assisi
According to The Franciscan Archives, the year of Saint Francis’ birth is not certain - it is believed to be either 1181 or 1182. However, it is known that he was born at Assisi in Umbria, Italy to a wealthy cloth merchant, Pietro di Bernardone.
Francis was originally named Giovanni. However, his father, arriving home after his birth, changed his name to acknowledge the family’s growing connections to France.
During Francis’ youth, when he wasn’t at work in the family business, he spent considerable time at leisure, carousing with his friends. However, after attempting to begin a military career, he was held prisoner for about a year, and fell ill. During this time, he experienced a spiritual conversion, making Jesus the center of his life. He continued to strengthen this change of heart throughout his early twenties.
With his passion for Jesus becoming more and more evident to those who knew him, Francis soon developed a large following. He eventually became the founder of the Franciscan Order. He lived a life devoted to simplicity and following the teachings of Christ.
Francis of Assisi died on October 3, 1226, and was canonized by Gregory IX on July 16, 1228. Besides his great passion for Jesus, Saint Francis is well-known for his love of, and communion with, nature. Many believe he reached sainthood while still living.
The First Christmas Creche
Three years before Francis died, he was taken with the idea of celebrating the birth of Jesus by reenacting the scene in a stable, complete with a manger, people, and live animals. As was Francis’ way, he threw himself into the event with great passion, attempting to fully express his great love for his Savior.
And so, at Greccio, Italy, on Christmas Eve in 1223, Francis created a nativity scene, which amazed all who were present. On that cold night, he was joined by the townspeople and friars in celebrating mass in a stable, with Francis himself chanting the Holy Gospel.
This Christ-centered event, filled with enormous joy and thanksgiving, set in motion the tradition of using a nativity scene for decoration during Advent and Christmas.
For other articles related to Advent and Christmas see Devotions and Ideas for Giving at Christmastime and Readings and Activities for Advent and Christmas.
For another article about a saint see St. Valentine and the Church.
Additional Source: Talbot, John Michael and Rabey, Steve. The Lessons of St. Francis: How to Bring Simplicity and Spirituality into Your Daily Life. New York: The Penguin Group, 1997.
Stella Walsh - Stella Walsh is a Christian writer, student of theology, elementary school teacher, committed church volunteer and photography ...
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