We came across this unique display in Yuma at the First United Methodist Church. Over 300 nativity sets from around the world were on display on this 11th Annual Journey to Bethlehem for this community.
But first just a little history on this first ~
St. Francis of Assisi is credited with creating the first nativity scene in 1223 at Greccio, central Italy, in an attempt to place the emphasis of Christmas upon the worship of Christ rather than upon secular materialism and gift giving.
By the end of the 19th century many versions of nativity sets of various sizes and materials were found made of terracotta, stone, paper, wood, wax and ivory, often with a backdrop setting in the stable.
Kay took over 60 pictures of those that caught her eye, and we know that we can’t show you all of them, but we're sure that you'll enjoy those that we showcased below.
The season is upon us!
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| Painted Rocks |
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| Quatamalan |
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| Very cute! |
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| Boyd's Bears |
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| Almost oriental in the faces |
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| This gourd is hollowed out for the Holy Family scene |
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| It looks almost like a "nesting" Nativity Set. |
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| A simple clay set for us to use our imagination.... and smile! |
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| Native American theme |
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| Tea Cup Nativity Set |
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| Terracotta |
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| A very colorful piece made from glass. |
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| Painting on wood. |
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| Fabric made Nativity Set. |
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| From Mexico, made from stamped metal and painted |
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| Isn't this Gourd beautiful? |
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| From South America |
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| Made in Alaska: Ivory figurines with Baby Jesus swaddled in a piece of Polar Bear fur, sitting on top of a whale spine. |
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| The Holy Family made from rocks |
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| Individual pieces of carved wood figures |
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| Metal engraved |
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| Carved into a piece of wood |
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| Our beloved Peanuts characters |
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| Bethlehem Olive Wood |
