One of the most firmly rooted Christmas traditions is the reproduction of the nativity scene with figurines arranged with various landscapes and mangers. This tradition is currently observed in most of Europe, Latin America and the United States. The characters represented in modern-day nativity scenes include the Baby Jesus, Mary, Joseph and the Three Wise Men. In recent years, some people have used nativity scenes in order to make political or social statements, because many U.S. courts have held they cannot be displayed on government property. Another recent trend is the mobile manger, which travels from house to house so others might welcome the Holy Family.
Origins of the Tradition
The origins of the tradition of the Nativity Scene can be traced to medieval religious paintings and sculptures that hung in temples, where priests ministered to the faithful. It can also be traced to the semi-liturgical scenes performed during Christmas Eve Mass. But the tradition really took root in the 13th century when Saint Francis of Assisi decided to celebrate Christmas in the most realistic way possible. With the Pope's permission, he proceeded to create a manger strewn with hay inside a cave, and included a replica of the Baby Jesus next to a live ox and mule. In the year 1223, Christmas Mass was celebrated with the manger scene as a background. This humble scene had such a strong impact that it quickly took hold in all of Italy. Soon after, the tradition found its way into the houses of Europe's nobility, eventually reaching the poorest of the poor. In Spain, the tradition was embraced by King Charles III, who in the 18th century imported it from Naples. During the 19th century it gained popularity in Spanish and Latin American households, not spreading to France until the beginning of the 20th century.
Live Re-enactments
In many areas of Spain, the tradition of using real people to re-enact the manger scene is still alive. These dramatic plays are common in many Latin American countries, too, such as Ecuador and Argentina, and include a number of Christmas scenes. Mexico celebrates a very important tradition known as "Las Posadas," consisting of illuminated processions held every evening from Dec. 16 to Dec. 24 to symbolize the efforts of Joseph and the Virgin Mary as they lighted the path for Jesus. The procession of "Las Posadas" also is celebrated in Honduras and El Salvador. In El Salvador, people put on brilliantly colored silk scarves, wear laced and sequined dresses, and carry shepherd's staffs and bells. In many Venezuelan towns, it's customary to enact what is called "La Bajada de los Reyes Magos," a procession of the Three Kings which includes practically the whole town.
Misa del Gallo (Rooster Mass or Midnight Mass)
This is the name of the midnight mass held on Christmas Eve. The word "rooster" comes from a fable, which described it as the first animal to witness the birth of Christ and the first to announce it to the world. Up until the beginning of the 20th century, the arrival of midnight was heralded by a cock's crow, either with a real animal or a simulation. The Mass first appeared in the 5th century. During the Middle Ages it was transformed into a jubilant celebration far different from the solemn occasion we know today. Before the dawn of the 20th century, it was customary to grant to the assembled clergymen the privilege of being the first to adore the Child. During the Adoration, the women offered homemade sweets in exchange for consecrated or Christmas bread. It was also traditional practice to save a piece of this bread as an amulet to be called upon only in the direst of medical needs. Another long-standing tradition is to wear some piece of clothing to ward off the devil. In some areas, this Mass takes place during the very early morning hours. In most Latin American countries, it is traditional for the whole family to go to Mass together. For Panamanians, it is the most important time of the holidays.
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