The History of the Provençal Nativity Crèche and the Joyful Little Santons of Provence

The village portrayed in the scene is not that of Bethlehem where Christ was historically born. Rather, this little village is meant to represent a small town in Provence, France, in the early 1800’s, around the time when this tradition was born. This village is meant to be symbolic of our modern present day and the santons are meant to symbolize us in the 21st century going about our busy lives. The manger in which the Christ Child lies, together with His Mother, Mary, and St. Joseph are present in this town with these French villagers. The profound message behind this scene is Catholic Faith of Incarnation. We, as Catholics, believe that Christ was not only born in Palestine two millennia ago, but is born every year on December 25th within our souls through His grace, even in this present 21st century. The message of this nativity scene reminds us that, through the Liturgy of the Catholic Church, 2000 years of history are suppressed and the actual birth of Christ Our Savior is taken from the year 0 A.D. and brought to us in this present day and we, like these little santons, are meant to receive him into our lives and to adore the Incarnate God. Each little santon, having heard the news of Jesus’ birth from the shepherds, spreads the news to their neighbor and hastily go to the manger to adore Him and to offer their unique gifts to this newborn King. Let us within our hearts humbly fall down and offer ourselves in adoration to the Redeemer come.