Admirabile Signum: The Meaning and Importance of the Nativity Scene, by Pope Francis

Pope Francis transforms the Nativity scene, an often overlooked part of Christmas, into the very focal point of our Christmas devotion in this Apostolic Letter. “In Jesus, God was a child, and in this way, he wished to reveal the greatness of his love: by smiling and opening his arms to all.” – Admirabile Signum. In this apostolic letter, Pope Francis explores the meaning of the Nativity scene, its origins, and the importance it has for us today. With references to the first nativity scene realised by St Francis of Assisi in Greccio, Italy, Pope Francis takes us through the history of the crib, the beauty of so simple a scene, and its meaning for our salvation. In this letter, he transforms what is often an overlooked part of the season into the very focal point of our devotion at Christmas.