“Vatican display brings manger scene “Into Our Present World”

VATICAN CITY — The Nativity scene in St. Peter’s Square is not getting rave reviews: The backdrop does not look like a stable and the characters in need — hungry, naked, dead, imprisoned — don’t exactly evoke a silent night when all was cozy, calm and bright. Franciscan Father John Puodziunas said he didn’t like it at first.

In addition to Mary and Joseph baby Jesus will appear only on Christmas — the scene includes figures of people who
illustrate the ongoing need for the corporal works of mercy, including feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, burying the dead, caring for the sick and visiting those in prison.

As Father Puodziunas, a friar from Philadelphia who is now general treasurer of the Order of Friars Minor, Continue reading →