UP to 30 nativity crib sets of various ages and styles will be on display at St Mary’s Church, in Barnard Castle, to celebrate advent.
The fundraising exhibition takes place on Saturday, December 10, between 10am and 4pm. Saint Francis of Assisi is credited with creating the first live nativity scene with animals and people more than 800 years ago. Since then, nativity scenes have been displayed in churches and homes around the world during the lead up to Christmas.
Revd Canon Alec Harding said: “This is all about the celebration of advent. There will be nativity cribs of different ages as well as styles and we will have our own large crib on display as well.
“We put out an appeal on social media for people to loan us their nativity cribs and were inundated with offers from 20 to 30.”
Alongside each crib, which will be displayed in the labyrinth area of the church, will be information on the history of each. Mr Harding added: “We will have our own very large crib on display, but unfortunately we don’t know much about it. We’d love to hear from anyone who knows a little more about it and how it was made.” Those attending the exhibition are also being invited to bring along their own cribs on the day so they can be blessed. Festive refreshments and drinks will be served and although admittance to the exhibition is free, donations will be taken for St Mary’s.
