By Fr.Chetan, Capuchin, Rome

Rome Dec 27, 2007: The mammoth crib in St.Peter's Square, Vatican City draws the attention of thousands of believers and curious spectators every year.  This year the crib at St.Peter's Square is prepared from a different perspective.  At first sight the difference goes unnoticed, but an attentive look tells you the difference.

Traditionally, Jesus was born in Bethlehem in a manger and this is pictured in every crib.  This actually is done according to the gospel narration of Luke.  But at the same time, the evangelist Matthew differs in the infancy narration and tells that, Jesus, in fact, was born at Nazareth in the house of Joseph, the foster father of Jesus.

The crib in St.Peter's Square, Vatican City is designed this year based on the gospel of Matthew.  Naturally, one doesn't see much of an animal habitation setting, instead sees a decent simple house in which Jesus is born.

The scene of this year's Nativity recalls the painting style of the Flemish School of the 1500's.  The Province of Trento has offered the life size figures and the various objects that adorn the crib.  In celebration of the 15th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between Mexico and the Holy See, the state of Jalisco has donated the Angels by the artist Augustine Parra and the decorations of the Christmas Tree.

The Nativity Scene in St.Peter's Square is designed and built by the Technical services of the Vatican City State.

In truth it's immaterial from whose perspective the Nativity Scene has been designed.  But the important message of this year's Christmas in the words of Benedict XVI: 'A Christmas celebration without Christ, is totally meaningless'!!

Also read: Christmas Celebrations Around The World - 2007