He(Pope Benedict XVI) also encouraged the custom of setting up nativity scenes in the home.
"It is my hope that such an important element (of Christmas) not only part of our spirituality, but also of our culture and art continue to be a simple and eloquent way of remembering Christ."
The home nativity scene is the traditional focal point of the Italian Christmas, with families working for days on elaborate settings which, along with the main figures, often include village scenes, artistic lighting and even fountains with running water.
"It is my hope that such an important element (of Christmas) not only part of our spirituality, but also of our culture and art continue to be a simple and eloquent way of remembering Christ."
The home nativity scene is the traditional focal point of the Italian Christmas, with families working for days on elaborate settings which, along with the main figures, often include village scenes, artistic lighting and even fountains with running water.
I guess my Fontaninni Nativity Scene qualifies me as an Italian. Good. I am half Italian. My Nana was born in the heart of little Italy in New York City, Mulberry Street, and my Grandfather was born in Pietrelcina, the birthplace of Padre Pio. They were baptized in the same church, Santa Maria del Angeli, ten years apart. That may be as close as I'll get to sainthood. Padre Pio, pray for us.
3 comments:
I love nativity scenes. Great job!!!
Your Fontanini Nativity set looks like it has more figures than ours does. How interesting about the Italian side of your family. :-)
I remember Tony Danza mentioning he was related to St. Padre Pio.
No way!
Tony Danza's my paesano!!
We loved him in "Angels in the Outfield"!
Hey Tony, I'm comin over tonight for baccala and scungili!
Buon Natale everyone!
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