Nativity Scene Displays True Meaning Of Holiday

With all the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season, it’s easy to forget the holiday’s true meaning. A nativity scene helps to bring it back into perspective.

It is said that the nativity scene, or creche, dates back to the year 1224, when St. Francis of Assisi set up a manger scene in the hills above the village of Greccio, Italy. And although he used real people and live animals, you won’t have to.

This big, full-color outdoor nativity display is easy to put together and set up. Its 14 figures are about two-thirds life-size, with the camels standing about 5 feet tall.

They can be set up in the yard or on the roof or used at businesses, churches and other locations.

The figures are printed on weather-resistant poster paper with waterproof, “sunfast” inks.

The only materials needed are the posters, a few sheets of exterior plywood, waterproof glue, paint and sealer. The whole family can help put the figures together.

To build the display, just glue the posters onto plywood, saw around the outer edges and paint the sides and backs black. Let them dry, then make stakes or stands from the remaining plywood and set the display up where desired.

The posters are designed to last several years untreated, but a coat of polyurethane sealer can be applied for greater protection.

The Nativity Scene Display, No. 7, is $39.95 and includes posters for all 14 figures. In addition, a catalog picturing hundreds of do-it-yourself projects is $3.95, and a free Christmas brochure is available on request. Prices include postage and handling.

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