Oblate News

Christmas Crib Challenge

Share a photo of your Crib

By now, many of us will have dusted off, reassembled, rebuilt and tidied up our Christmas nativity scene or crib in our homes, schools, parishes or places of work. 

Or perhaps you have made a new one, or began a new tradition with something a bit different. This ancient tradition, which began when St Francis of Assisi was inspired by his visit to the birthplace of Jesus, is one that has meaning for people of all ages, races, and backgrounds.


We are inviting you to join us in the “Christmas Crib Challenge” in the lead up to Christmas – share an image of your crib with us and the world – you can use the hashtag #christmascribchallenge when you post on social media and send them to us on Facebook or email communications@oblates.ie with your image. 
Why not also invite your friends to take part in this simple and joyful way to spread the Christmas message?

Particularly in these strange days, the crib, with the Holy Family and the Christ-child, are a sign of the hope, peace and joy of our faith. Each of us makes a space for Christ in our homes and our hearts at this time of year, or, we may decide to begin again and to welcome the child Jesus into our hearts anew.

 The crib becomes a focal point of prayer and anticipation in our homes as we patiently wait for the great feast of Christmas to arrive. Little children contemplate the scene with wonder and awe.



Or, perhaps you are away from home, or missing someone who can’t be with there with you this Christmas. Let the Crib remind you that we are all one family, one body of Christ, and we celebrate this great feast together, the coming of Christ into our world and into our hearts – the Word made flesh. 



What are your thoughts on the crib? Let’s share our cribs and what the crib stands for with the world.



#christmascribchallenge