Radiating from the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity’s Motherhouse in Manitowoc, WI and from all their Sisters serving throughout the United States, we pray for peace and all good for you and your family on this Feast of the Incarnation.
Three years prior to Francis’ death, at the town of Greccio, on the birthday of our Lord Jesus Christ, Francis wanted to enact the memory of the babe who was born in Bethlehem. Join us in reflecting on this excerpt from Thomas Celano’s The Life of Saint Francis in your own home among your loved ones.
Sister Monica Martin carries the child Jesus statue to the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity's outdoor crib.
Finally, the day of joy has drawn near, the time of exultation has come. From many different places the brethren have been called. As they could, the men and women of that land with exultant hearts prepare candles and torches to light up that night whose shining star has enlightened every day and year.
Finally, the holy man of God comes and, finally all things prepared, he saw them and was glad. Indeed, the manger is prepared, the hay is carried in, and the ox and ass are led to the spot. There simplicity is given a place of honor, poverty is exalted, humility is commended, and out of Greccio is made a new Bethlehem.
As you create a new Bethlehem this Christmas wherever you are, you are remembered in the solemnities of the Eucharist in our Manitowoc Greccio and beyond.
