What is a nativity play or scene?

In the Christian tradition, a nativity scene (also known as a manger scene, crib, crèche (/krɛʃ/or /kreɪʃ/), or in Italian presepio or presepe, or Bethlehem) is the special exhibition, particularly during the Christmas season, of art objects representing the birth of Jesus.

What is the nativity play called?

A Nativity play or Christmas pageant is a play which recounts the story of the Nativity of Jesus. It is usually performed at Christmas, the feast of the Nativity.

What is in a nativity scene?

A nativity scene is a three-dimensional depiction of the Nativity of Jesus. It is also called a crib, manger or crèche. Typically, a large scale scene includes: the Holy Family, the angels, the Magi, the ox and the donkey, and an assortment of shepherds, villagers, servants and others.

What characters are in the nativity play?

The story outlines the birth of Jesus and the anticipation around his birth. This story is made up of many significant characters: Mary, Joseph, the Wise Men, the Inn Keepers, the Donkey, the Angel, the Star and the list goes on!

What is the purpose of nativity plays?

The Nativity Play recreates the scene of Jesus’ Birth and tells of how Mary and Joseph were visited by the Shepherds and Wise Men. The parts of Mary, Joseph, the Shepherds and the Wise Men are played by children. If the school is attached to a Church, the play often takes place in the Church.

Why is it called Nativity?

The first records of the word nativity come from before 1150. It comes from the Middle French nativite, meaning “the feast of the birth of Jesus.” It ultimately derives from the Latin nātivitās, meaning “birth.” Although nativity can mean “birth” or “birthplace,” it’s not commonly used in this way.

How do you explain the Nativity?

Nativity refers to the birth of a person, as well as the facts surrounding their birth. Today, the word nativity is most often used in reference to the birth of Jesus Christ. The first nativity scene, or crèche, was created by Francis of Assisi in 1223.

Why is the Nativity important?

The story of Jesus’ birth, called the nativity , is often retold by children in nativity plays. Christians often celebrate Christmas by giving and receiving presents and cards. This reminds them of the gift of Jesus, beginning his earthly life.

What is the story of the Nativity?

The Nativity Story, also known as the Christmas Story or the Nativity of Jesus, is a story that tells the conception and birth of Jesus Christ. Throughout the many centuries of Christianity, the Christmas Story has developed into a yearly tradition and is central to the celebration of Christmas in the Christian faith.

When should a nativity scene be set up?

Set up the Nativity set early in the holiday season a prominent area of the house where all will see. Light the scene, indoors or out. Do not put the baby Jesus into the manger until Christmas morning. Leave the nativity set up until the Feast of the Epiphany.

Where to buy nativity scene?

Many sizes, low prices, great selection! Catholic Supply of St. Louis, Inc. carries a wide selection of Nativity scenes for inside and outside of your home, church, or business. We are pleased to offer the largest selection of Nativity Sets from sources within the United States and all over the world.

What is the history of the nativity scene?

The first-ever Nativity scene recorded in history was created by St. Francis of Assisi. St. Francis was concerned that the meaning of Christmas was becoming lost. To him, people appeared focused on ritual of gift giving instead of the true message of Christmas.

What does nativity play mean?

Nativity play. A Nativity play or Christmas pageant is a play which recounts the story of the Nativity of Jesus. It is usually performed at Christmas, the feast of the Nativity.

What is another name for the nativity scene?

In the Christian tradition, a nativity scene (also known as a manger scene, crib, crèche (/krɛʃ/or /kreɪʃ/, or in Italian presepio or presepe) is the special exhibition, particularly during the Christmas season, of art objects representing the birth of Jesus.