NATIVITY EXPERIENCE — 76TH ANNUAL
6-8 p.m. December 15-30, 2023 | Closed Christmas Eve and Day
Admission is free. Gratefully accepting non-perishable food donations for area food banks.
The Comboni Missionaries hosted their first Nativity Experience in 1947, in the carriage house of their new Sacred Heart Seminary on Beechmont Road. Called the “Crib” in those days, the outbuilding recreated the Italian tradition of celebrating Christmas with scenes of the Nativity. Seminarians gathered rocks and moss from the area and created an impressive diorama of the Palestinian countryside, complete with cardboard starry sky, rivers, hills, and villages. Imported statuettes of the Holy Family, the ox and ass, angels, shepherds, kings, sheep and even a dog all had a role as dramatic lights and music carried a magical retelling of the Christmas story.
Now in its 76th year, the Nativity Experience has grown to be a family favorite for generations. We hope you’ll join us again this year in celebrating the birth of our Savior. From our family to yours, Merry Christmas!
Animated Nativity Display
For 76 years families have enjoyed visiting the Comboni Missionaries to view this unique, animated Nativity display. Narration is available in English and Spanish.
Mission Museum
The Comboni Mission Museum has been curated by our missionaries for decades. There are items from our missions and items special to our mission countries. Enjoy a self-guided tour or ask a Comboni Missionary to show you around.
Nativity Displays from Around the World
View Nativity Displays from more than a dozen countries. Each Nativity display is lovely and unique. Let us know which one is your favorite!
Mission Market and Christmas Boutique
Shop the Christmas Boutique for thrifty holiday gifts and decorations. Shop the Mission Market for unique gifts from our missions and local artistans from around the world.
Special Thanks to our Sponsors:
Mission Champion: Beechmont Automotive Group
