A users' guide for Episcopalians

"The ox knows its owner, and the ass it's master's crib; but Israel does not know, my people does not understand." (Isaiah 1:3)

We are now ready to experience the joy of Jesus's birth. The concept of the Christmas creche, or manger scene, originated in Europe. The first modern presentation was by the Jesuits in 1562 in Prague, and the idea spread rapidly to Naples, Spain, and southern France. Typically, the scene consists of Mary and Joseph, the three Magi or Wise Men, shepherds, sheep, the Star of Bethlehem, angels, and the manger. The Nativity scene is typically not dismantled until 2 February, Candlemas, whichs marks the end of the Epiphany season.