Advent day eight; The Nativity and it's origins.

See day 7 here 

We've all been part of a cringey nativity at some point but where did it originate from? 

In 1223 St. Francis of Assisi created the first Nativity scene but this wasn't talked about until a while after in an account about St Francis. According to the account he was allowed by Pope Honorious II to setup a manger with hay and two live animals (an ox and an ass) in a cave in Grecio in Italy. He then invited the village to come and behold the scene. 

Since the first Nativity scene it grew in popularity, spreading across Europe.  It is unsure when figures/people posed as Mary and Joseph but this eventually became incorporated, sometimes including all the characters involved in the Nativity or sometimes just the key characters. People started bringing these Nativity scenes in to their homes and churches as key decorations. 

Although the wise men and shepherds are seen together in the Nativity, this isn't entirely true to the bible. Both wise men and Shepherds are described as being seen but not at the same time and no where was mentioned about animals being present, so the Nativity takes some creative license. 

Since the first Nativity scene people have performed plays at schools and churches thus making the Nativity a key part of Christmas.  There have even been TV shows and films about the Nativity story. 

In the Church of England they continue a tradition of Posada which is where a figurine of Mary and Joseph (and sometimes the Donkey) travel from house to house throughout the Church, with the people passing the figurines to each completing activities (especially if Children are involved) and prayers to honour the figures in to their homes for the night. On the 24th the figures are bought back to the Church and Jesus (and sometimes the shepherds and wise men) are added. It is a great way for Church members to celebrate Christmas together, and honour the religious side and Mary and Joseph's special journey. 

Did you know the history of Nativity? 

Comment below! 

Rosie x