As we approach the Christian seasons of Advent and Christmas, Religious Life invites the campus community to a special Live Nativity. Did you know the tradition of a live Nativity originated with Saint Francis of Assisi in AD 1233? Saint Francis wanted to remind people of the humble birth of Jesus Christ, reimagining how the Nativity could be experienced. Before his groundbreaking idea, depictions of the Nativity were primarily reserved for paintings and artwork. By creating a live reenactment, Saint Francis offered people the opportunity to not only see but feel the story of Christ’s birth with all their senses—a transformative moment in the Christian tradition that made the story more accessible and meaningful to the masses. Join us as we step into this sacred story together (with live animals!) and reflect on the hope and joy it brings!
