The Nativity Scene in St Peter’s Square

At Christmas, Nativity scenes make their appearance in churches and homes across the world. In Italy there is a particularly strong tradition of presepio – some churches in Rome have exhibitions of historical and modern designs, and there are some streets on Naples which are full at this time of the year with thousands of designs and figures to place in them.

One of the largest Nativity scenes is in St Peter’s Square. The custom only dates back to 1982, when Pope John Paul II inaugurated the first scene. As is customary, it is flanked by a massive Christmas tree.  Countries and regions take it in turn to donate the tree: last year it came from Bavaria, this year it is an 82 foot spruce grown in the Dolomites.  It is illuminated by about 18,000 lights, and decorated with ceramic ornaments made by children across Italy who are undergoing treatment for cancer and other illnesses.

The Nativity scene itself has special significance this year as well. The scene depicts the Maltese countryside, with the characters dressed in traditional dress. There is a traditional Maltese boat, which not only represents the island’s tradition, but also, as highlighted by Pope Francis when he switched on the lights on 9 December, the dire risks facing the thousands of migrants who have risked their lives crossing the Mediterranean in small boats to get to Europe.

That is not the only link to the present. The scene also incorporates parts of the facade and the Cross from the Basilica of St Benedict in Norcia. This Basilica was damaged during the earthquake in October, which left many families homeless, and the money gathered from the collection boxes around the Nativity will go towards rebuilding the church in Norcia.

Thus the traditions of Christmas are tied into contemporary the challenges. A Nativity scene which will attract hundreds of visitors to gaze at its beauty will also carry within it some pertinent messages for us all today.