To find the Scripture stories of the Nativity, we look to the Gospels of Luke and Matthew. Woven into our recollection of the Nativity story are many of the details that come to us from tradition, such as the number of Magi. The truth is that no one knows exactly where and when Jesus was born, or how Mary and Joseph traveled to Bethlehem, or even if Jesus was born in a stable, in a cave, or perhaps at the home of a relative who lived in that town.

None of the uncertain facts of Jesus’ birth is as important as the truth of the Gospel message. The power of our Christmas celebration is that God took on our human nature and yet remained God. We call this central truth of our faith the Incarnation. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, and the Second Person of the Trinity was born of a woman. He lived, died, and rose to new life.

When recalling the Nativity story with young children, it is not necessary to point out all the uncertain facts surrounding the birth of Jesus. Allow children to get caught up in the story itself, and remember that God loved us so much that God sent Jesus to show us this love. Christmas is our celebration of God’s love.

Family Activity

	Talk about Jesus, the Light of the World. Explain that Jesus came into our world and brought the light of kindness and peace. Have the children recall the star of Bethlehem that led the Magi to Jesus. Explain that we can become "stars" by living as Jesus lived.

	•		Give each family member a piece of construction paper and a pre-cut paper flame to make candles. Use crayons or markers to draw Christmas symbols, such as the manger scene, angels, and the Advent wreath, on the paper.
	•		Pre-cut star shapes of construction paper. Put a hole at the top of each. Decorate the stars using crayons or markers, glitter glue, and other art materials.
	•		Use red or green yarn or string to put through the holes and tie the ends together so the stars can be hung as ornaments.
	•		Display the star ornaments on your Christmas tree as a reminder that we, too, are lights of goodness for our world.

See the Liturgical Calendar on this site for additional information.
See also Catechist—Lent or Teacher—Lent for Liturgy.