About the Exhibit

Crèche is a French word for a three-dimensional artistic representation of the birth of Jesus. St. Francis of Assisi is credited with popularizing the crèche tradition. While traveling in Italy in 1223, he was inspired by the sight of shepherds in moonlit fields, and beckoned villagers that Christmas Eve to light the sky with their torches, bring their animals, and re-enact the Nativity.

Beginning in Europe, the tradition eventually spread throughout the rest of the world. Each crèche reflects the time and culture of the artist and draws us to Jesus. For it is He — born of Mary, the Son of God, our Savior — who gives cause around the world to rejoice this Christmas season and always.

In many countries, families welcome friends and neighbors into their homes each December to share beloved crèches they have made and collected. Echoing this tradition, we open the doors of our church to invite all to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and answer His call, “Come unto me.”