This year marks the 800th anniversary of the first nativity scene created at Greccio, Italy. It is one of the Franciscan Centenary anniversaries being celebrated by the Franciscan Family. This year, the 800th anniversary of the approval of the Later Rule is being celebrated as well.
To commemorate the 800th anniversary of the first nativity scene, the community of St. Maximilian Major Seminary created an exhibition entitled: “Presepe” (Manger). It featured fifty different nativity scenes or “Belens,” as they are called in the Philippines. They ranged in scale from miniature to life-size. They also were crafted according to different genres: the Chibi style [a kind of Japanese anime], the Filipino style, the American style, and the style of the famous nativity scenes from Naples. There was even a classical ensemble nativity scene showing the reenactment performed by St. Francis of Assisi. This wonderful exhibit was aptly titled, “Born of a Virgin.” One of the highlights of the exhibition were the relics on display. There was a relic taken from Jesus’ manger, a relic stone taken from the Cave of the Nativity in Bethlehem, a bone relic from the Magi and a bone relic from St. Francis of Assisi.
The exhibition ran from October 1 to December 8 and was a testament to the enduring legacy of St. Francis and his profound impact on the Christian world. This momentous occasion was made possible by the dedicated efforts of Friar Dominic M. LIM, OFM Conv., the Rector of the Seminary; Friar Augustine M. ASILO, OFM Conv.; Mr. Bjorn ADTO; and other santeros [crafters of nativity scenes] who generously allowed their “Belens” to be part of this important exhibition.
Related to this celebration on October 27, 2023, Pope Francis granted a plenary indulgence, through the office of the Apostolic Penitentiary, to the faithful who visit any Franciscan church in the world and pray before the nativity scene there. The indulgence lasts from December 8, 2023 (the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary) to February 2, 2024 (the Feast of the Presentation of Our Lord Jesus Christ in the Temple). Likewise, any who are sick or unable to participate physically can equally benefit from the gift of the plenary indulgence by offering up their sufferings to the Lord or by carrying out works of piety.
Friar Augustine ASILO
