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Like Bethlehem's stable long ago,
Where Shepherds once adored,
The hillside crib became that night
A temple for our Lord.
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Francis introduces the Christmas creche at Greccio
Three years before he died St. Francis decided to celebrate the memory of the birth of the Child Jesus at Greccio, with the greatest possible solemnity. He asked and obtained the permission of the pope for the ceremony, so that he could not be accused of being an innovator, and then he had a crib prepared, with hay and an ox and an ass. The friars were all invited and the people came in crowds. The forest re-echoed with their voices and the night was lit up with a multitude of bright lights, while the beautiful music of God's praises added to the solemnity. The saint stood before the crib and his heart overflowed with tender compassion; he was bathed in tears but overcome with joy. The Mass was sung there and Francis, who was a deacon, sang the Gospel. Then he preached to the people about the birth of the poor King, whom he called the Babe of Bethlehem in his tender love. (St. Bonaventure, Major Legend, X7)
Blessed Mary of the Passion, Foundress of the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary wrote:
"The happiness of being one with one's God is a heaven. To share this happiness with others, is a heaven even nearer still to heaven."
Let us share our joy with others not only during the Christmas season, but every day.
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May your Christmas and New Year be blessed with GOD's gifts of Peace, Hope and Joy!
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