Family Nativity Scene Christmas Eve

St. Francis of Assisi made the first Christmas nativity scene for Christmas Eve in 1223. It was a place where he could slow down and think about the presence of God in his life. Since then, communities from around the world have taken part in this important tradition, often incorporating local customs that remind us that Christ was born for the entire human family. Reflecting on the nativity scene can be a meaningful way for families to gather in prayer, mindful of the great joy in Christ that Advent points us toward.


Task: Placing the infant Jesus in the manger.

Sharing Exercise:  Family members tell how a new child was welcomed into your family circle. How was a name chosen, how did members feel with this new arrival, what joy do you remember?
 
Music: Silent Night

Family Nativity Scene 4th Week of Advent


Task: Place figures of Mary and Joseph among the animals.

Sharing Exercise: Elder family members sharing stories of parents, grandparents, foster parents, godparents. Tell the role they played in the family life, contributions they made or learnings they inspired.

Music: What Child is This 

Family Nativity Scene 3rd Week of Advent


Task: Placing Shepherds and sheep among the animals.

Sharing Exercise: Family members sharing memories and stories of relatives, friends, helpers (e.g. babysitters), neighbors who were part of family life. How did the family benefit from their association with the family?  What activities did they promote – music, dance, games, adventures, etc.?
 
Music: The First Noel 

Family Nativity Scene 2nd Week of Advent


Task: Placing animals on top of the straw.

Sharing Exercise: Family members sharing stories and memories of pets and animals that were/are part of family life – how they impacted the family, their names, their habits, who took care of them, etc. 
  
Music: The Friendly Beasts 

Family Nativity Scene 1st Week of Advent


Task: Placing straw in place to form the floor of a stable and adding a stable if one is available.

Sharing Exercise: Family members gather around their manger scene and share memories about the homes they grew up in – remembering the physical structures; events and happenings that occurred there; what the rooms were like, e.g. kitchen, bathroom, living room, rec. room, dining room, etc. 
  
Music: Away in a Manger