Moscow adopts the tradition of Christmas nativity scenes

Editor - Stakheev Vladimir, photos - RIA Novosti, ITAR-TASS, music - Holy night

In contrast to American and European countries Russia don't have such a stable tradition of static nativity scenes which are established in front of or within churches on the Christmas eve. Still you can find a couple of them next to or in Moscow's Catholic cathedrals. There are 3 of them in Russia's capital: Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, The Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul, The Temple Of St. Louis The French. So, come and have a look.

A static nativity scene is composed of figurines depicting the infant Jesus resting in a manger, Mary, and Joseph. There also may be figures of angels, shepherds, and various animals made of any material, and arranged in a stable or grotto. While most home nativity scenes are packed away at Christmas or shortly thereafter, nativity scenes in churches usually remain on display until the feast of the Baptism of the Lord.

The nativity scene may not accurately reflect gospel events. For example, the shepherds, the Magi, and the ox and ass may be displayed together at the manger. Some traditions bring other scriptural characters to the nativity scene such as Adam and Eve and the serpent, Noah and his animals, the twelve sons of Jacob, the twelve prophets and the twelve apostles.

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