Christmas Creche or Nativity Scene

Crèche comes from the low Latin word cripia - meaning manger - was the origin of the term crèche meaning the Nativity Scene. The origin of the Nativity scene or crèche was started by Saint Francis of Assisi. (Friends of the Crèche). He organized a play near Grecchio using live animals and people to recreate the scene of Christ's birth. The baby was laid in a straw filled manger between a mule and a bull. Soon others were following his example. Today, while it is still played out much like Saint Francis had done, most have a crèche or nativity scene in their home made from wax, wooden or clay figurines. There is a wide selection of well made figures in stores and on-line. This guide is unique in that it helps give the proper placement of your figures to help you re-create the scene as Saint Francis did in his play. The basic nativity (crèche) has seven figures, but one can always add additional figurines as on lookers.

(1) Place the stable where you wish it to be shown. Some place the scene on a fireplace mantle, but even the top of the television entertainment center works well. Anywhere you wish to showcase the nativity is a correct choice.

(2) Place the manger in the center of the stable.

(3) Mary is placed on the manger's right side and placed close.

(4) Joseph is placed on the left of the manger. Note: some place Joseph near the back of the left side of the stable. This represents man's doubt.

(5) Baby is placed in the manger. There are some that do not place the baby in the manger until Christmas day to show His birth.

(6) A mule and a bull are placed on either side of Mary and Joseph.

That is the basic set up for a Crèche. However, there are the Wise Men to consider as well as the angel and the Shepard. If one has those figurines in their collection, they would be placed as follows:

(a) The angel should be position above the manger if possible. If not, then place the angel directly behind the holy family behind the manger, overlooking the baby.

(b) The Wise Men and their camels can be placed on either side of the stable looking towards the manger.

(c) The Shepard and his flock are placed on the opposite site of the stable across from the Wise Men. Again, looking towards the direction of the manger.

This is the proper set up for the crèche or nativity scene and can be done indoors or out.