The Vatican has chosen the minority view for this year’s Nativity Scene, drawing its setting from the scant information in St. Mathew’s version of the story, which makes no mention of an improvised birth in a cave or shepherd-crowded stables.
So this year Jesus will be born in Joseph’s house.
Is humble out and mundane in? The Vatican hasn’t said. The traditional presepe is pretty darn popular in Italy. The theme of hope evolving from humble roots is a pretty universal feel-good message that keeps people striving, and one of the ultimate selling points of Jesus’ ministry, it seems to me.
ANSA: Vatican’s new take on Nativity – Christmas crib at St Peter’s features Joseph’s home