The Nativity Scene: A Call of Love and Service
The Heritage Centre is proud to display a nativity scene made by Myrna Lynch rsc for her community at St Mary’s Convent, Liverpool during the 1990s. We warmly invite you to visit us to view this very special piece and enjoy some Christmas treats.
The nativity scene, with its humble origins in medieval Italy, has for many of us become a symbol of faith, compassion and humility. As we gather around nativity scenes during Advent and the Christmas season, we are reminded not only of the historical event the scene depicts but also the enduring call to emulate the love and service exemplified by each in the story.
Saint Francis of Assisi played a pivotal role in shaping the visual representation of the nativity scene. Emerging in the early 13th century as a form of visual storytelling to convey biblical narratives to a largely illiterate audience, Francis sought to create a tangible and moving experience for the faithful. Legend has it that in 1223, he organised a live nativity scene in Greccio, Italy during Christmas Eve Mass. Over time, the nativity scene has evolved into a cherished Christmas tradition.
Fast-forward to the present day and Pope Francis continues to emphasise the spiritual significance of the nativity scene and the “awe and wonder” this simple scene offers. He encourages believers to reflect on the core message of Christmas – the profound love and humility embodied in the birth of Christ. “The incarnation of Jesus Christ remains the heart of God’s revelation, although it is easily forgotten that its unfolding is so unobtrusive, to the point of going unnoticed. Littleness, in fact, is the way to encounter God” Pope Francis writes. The Pope’s advocacy for simplicity, compassion and inclusivity resonates with the values embedded in the nativity scene.
The work of the Sisters of Charity continues to emulate the virtues of love and service represented in the Christmas story. Since their first arrival to Australia’s shores in 1838, they continue to make a remarkable contribution to the promotion of God’s mission in the world. Through their dedication and initiatives in healthcare, education, and social services, the Sisters of Charity exemplify the enduring legacy and gift of the nativity scene.
On behalf of the Sisters of Charity Heritage Centre, I’d like to wish you a blessed Advent and may the gift of the nativity scene be with you at Christmas and always.
