The Indoor Christmas Crib
The very first known depiction of the nativity scene dates from a 4th century catacomb under Rome and Mystery plays enacting scenes from the Bible date back to the 5th century. But it is St Francis of Assisi who is credited with creating the first Crib. Being St Francis of course he used real animals (and people) to bring the Bible story to life.
Our crib figures were made by the Loehr family and given to the church several years ago. This year, whilst we have all been in lockdown, they’ve been on holiday with their makers and have been beautifully refurbished by Alf, Nicola and Makena. You will notice some additions to our tableau – two female shepherds have joined the group; others have had a change of clothes and hairdos. Joseph is a completely new figure. And two splendid angels have flown in, one with actual feathered wings. The stable too has had a much-needed makeover. It is, I believe, the structure made by Ken Clarke some 40, or even 50, years ago, so it’s stood the test of time, but was becoming alarmingly rickety!
We are most grateful to the Loehrs for the work they’ve put into refreshing our figures and imaginative new layout.
Not sure yet how the new Tier 4 restrictions will impact our ability to visit the crib but isn’t it reassuring to know that the figures will be there throughout the Christmas period, bearing witness, even if we can’t.