Pope Francis: Nativity scenes show a 'domestic Gospel'

Christmas nativity scenes are a “domestic Gospel,” which helps to make the Holy Family present in one’s home, Pope Francis has said.

He also encouraged every family to have one in their home at Christmas time.

During his last general audience of 2019, Francis said that gazing at the nativity, with the baby Jesus, Virgin Mary, and St Joseph “we can imagine the thoughts they had while the Child was born in poverty: joy but also shock.”

“And we can also invite the Holy Family to our home, where there are joys and worries, where every day we wake up, get food and sleep close to our loved ones,” he said. “The nativity is a domestic Gospel.”