Yesterday, Christmas Eve, I noted the origin of the Nativity scene can be traced directly to St. Francis of Assisi. From the first live reenactment the tradition quickly moved to stage sets in churches. Soon, people placed scenes inside their own homes. The image of the Holy Family has become integral to the Christmas celebration, especially in Italy and Germany, where many Yuletide traditions in America have their source.
The image of the Holy Family in the manger is so common, it is easy to overlook the many ways people choose to include these in their Christmas decorations, including lawn ornaments. Here’s just a sampling from the neighborhood in Clear Lake, Texas where we’ve been visiting family.
Merry Christmas everyone!