Cover Story
CHRISTMAS IN PROVENCE
by Charles Des Ruisseaux
Adapted from a presentation at the Friends of the Creche convention in November 2003
At Christmas, in Provence, in southern France, families usually set up elaborate villages around the stable with all the townspeople outside On Christmas Day, parents tell their children stories about each of the statues, or santons, in their family Nativity scene.
The word santon comes from the Provem;:al language and means "small saint." A santon is a clay statuette, hand painted , representing a villager who comes to the creche to worship the new-born Babe and to offer Him the fruits of his or her work. Such gifts of the villagers are not so precious as that offered by the Magi; they are simple gifts given wholeheartedly by simple people .
Strictly speaking, the Holy Family and other Biblical characters, such as the angels, the shepherds and the Magi, are not part of the family of santons.
Provence, in an area known today as the Midi , borders Italy . Certainly, there is an Italian influence in the santon villages. Like the famous Neapolitanpresepii which brought Bethlehem to Naples , so the santonniers , or santon makers, brought Bethlehem to southern France and the people of Provence to Christ's manger. The Biblical scene is transplanted to a Mediterranean village , and it is the people of that geographical area who come to the creche.
The custom of creating a creche came first to Provence when Pope John XII (1319-34) moved from Rome to Avignon By the 17 th century , the Italian practice of setting up a crib in the church had spread throughout the region. In 1789 at the time of the French Revolution, when churches and ;onvents were closed, home creches grew in popularity as families sought to maintain their faith and pass it on to their children
Early santons were made of wood, wax, cork, or papier mache . A church statue maker from Marseilles, Jean Louis Lagnel , conceived the idea of small clay figurines, brightly painted , that families could purchase at a low price. At first limited to Biblical personages , the little figures were soon joined by folk from all walks of life bringing their personal offerings to the Holy Infant. The craft reached its peak in the 1820s and 1830s, which is why so many characters, now mass produced, appear in the clothing of that period.
There are two types of santons: the santons d'argile (clay figures) and the santons habilles (clothed figures) Until the end of the 1800s, the clay figures were not dried in kilns, but were dried merely in the sun. That technique persisted until the mid 1940s, but those santons are so fragile that today, most santonniers usually use kiln firing .
In recent years , regional creches have sprung up in many parts of France, and they too are called santons. These figures have -become very collectible, much like dolls , and
their religious significance has been replaced by a cultural or folkloric interest.
On the front cover is a detail of a santon village conceived by Shirley Thornton and photographed by Betsy Christensen, both ofAnn Arbor, Michigan.
Approximately 7 feet tall, and 10 feet wide at one point, the display boasts about 130 figures on 6-8 hillside levels. Perspective is created by using larger figures forward and smaller figures in the distance, a technique inspired by displays seen in churches and museums in France . The largest santons, ofthe habilles type, are 18 "high. Ascending levels hold smaller dolls with the tiniest clay villagers being about 2-1 / 2" high. Figures are from Christensen 's collection and from varying other collectors each year of the display.
In the cover scene , the blind grandfather is led to the manger by his grandson The old man has no material gift, only a prayer for the Child. As the grandfather prays, he receives the miracle ofsight, later recognizing a son stolen from him by the gypsies years before. (San ton tale recounted by Christensen. More santon stories on page 10.)
Dear Readers,
Two of the best points of my day are the time the postman delivers the daily mail and I receive letters and photos from readers, and the time I open the e-mail that holds notes from manyofyou.
This past couple of months , I have received especially beautiful photos as part of the Creche HeraldPhoto Contest. You will see the winners on our back cover and inside page . Other entries will appear from time to time as space permits
We also have had a good response to the exciting International Creche Congress wrap around tour , and that group approaches maximum
In this issue, we are including a short survey that will give all of us an opportunity to know each other. All responses are confidential and will be anonymously tabulated. Results will appear in a forthcoming issue I hope you will take the time to complete the few questions and return them to us. You may respond by snail mail or by e-mail.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Rita Bocher, Publisher
Santon collector Charles Des Ruisseaux lives in Man ch es ter, Ne w Hampshire
A Special Creche Herald Trip to Europe
Visit Oberammergau, Berchtesgaden, Salzburg, southern Bohemia, Prague with other Nativity lovers.
Land tour only, excluding period of Congress : $1364 (If single land only, add $75)
Round trip air via Lufthansa from JFK airport in New York to Munich , Germany and return from Prague, Czech Republic:
Total for land tour (excluding period of Congress) and round trip air fare: Double: $1987 ; Single: $2187
Optional trip cancellation and comprehensive travel insurance is available at $140 per person.
NOTE: In the event the Euro moves above 1.30 EUR/USD, a surcharge may be assessed.
Final payment due July 14, 2004.
The following cancellation policy applies: $50 penalty until May 31 , 2004; from June I -July 13-$3 00 per person penalty plus insurance if purchased; from July 14 to August 2-$300 per person plus insurance if purchased, plus the cost of airfare and any other prepaid items. After August 2, no refunds.
Higgins Travel & Cruise Center
2514 Golf Road, Eau Claire, WI 54701
Tel : 800-274-7790 Fax : 715-834-2160
Email: ioan@hieeinstravel.com
XVII Congress of the International Creche Federation
Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic September 23-26, 2004
Congress Registration Fee: April 1- June 30, 2004: 150 Euros per person After June 30, 2004 : 170 Euros per person
The bank account where money is to be wired is: Czechoslovak Commercial Bank , Bretislavova 1622
Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
Swift code : CEKO CZ PP
Account 188317156/0300CZK
Money to be sent in care of:
Ceske sdruzeni pratel betlemu (Czech Association ofFriends of the Crechc)
tr. Karla IV. 867/112
CZ-500 02 Hradec Kralove , Czech Republic
QUESTIONS? Rita Bocher: 610-649-7520; crecher@op.net
FRIENDS OF THE CRECHE NOTES
Dear Friends of the Creche,
With some pride, I note that Friends of the Creche will celebrate its fourth anniversary this August. We've had two successful conventions and an enjoyable one-day meeting. Our membership approaches 400. We've completed most of our organizational development though we still lack a website. We've gained a little financial stability thanks to the Hyannis convention. We still have challenges ahead. We would like to increase our membership, and reach out to those who cannot join us in our meetings.
Assisted by Vice-President Judy Davis, Wendy Reynoso and Pat Barrett are completing plans for the annual membership meeting October 30 in Pomona, California. This event-filled day boasts speakers, exhibits, and a luncheon. See page 5 for meeting details and an article on speaker and author Mary MacGregor Villareal. Also in the works is the planning by Susan Topp Weber, Judy Davis and Holly Zenger for the biennial convention November 911, 2005, in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
In May, the Board of Directors gathered in Dayton, Ohio . Discussion included actions to be taken for the website, proposed by-laws revisions, and special reports. The treasury is now slightly over $20K, as a result of the about $14,500 earned at Hyannis. That amount offers breathing room and possible funding for the new website.
Among the ongoing discussions within the Board are how we might be reaching out to our members. While we know you enjoy the Cree he Herald, and we feel you will enjoy the website once it is created, we also would like to hear other ideas from you Take a few minutes to write to me. I'd be happy to hear from you.
Looking toward the next few months, I encourage you to participate in our Board election in August/September I know some of you will be attending the International Creche Congress in the Czech Republic and look forward to seeing you there And I also hope to see many of you in Pomona, California, in October.
Jim Govan, President (JimGovan@aol.com)
Friends of the Creche (FOTC) was approved by the Internal Revenue Service as a 50l(c)(3) organization on January 3, 2003 , effective to the date of incorporation in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania on January 2, 200 I. The purpose of the organization is to promote the tradition of the creche The official registration and financial information ofFOTC may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State. Pennsylvania residents may call toll free: 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement. Information may also be obtained on the internet from GuideStar at www guidestar org FOTC does not have a permanent office Principal business address is : Friends of the Creche, % Julia Colflesh, Treasurer, 523. Springfield Avenu e, Folsom, PA I 9033 Inquiries also may be address ed to : James Govan, President, 36 I 9 N Nelson Street, Arlington, VA22207
BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTION
Another Board of Directors election cycle is starting, and we would like to thank the Friends of the Creche members for their active participation in the past.
Last year, two new Board members were elected and we are enjoying the new ideas and fresh perspectives they bring to the Board . With this in mind, we would like to state that we value both the continuity that comes with re-election of existing members and the new ideas and skills others bring. There are four seats in this year ' s election as there normally will be every year. We would like to emphasize the option of a member nominating another member , with that person's permission, to broaden the field of candidates. Friends of the Creche Eledion Committee
Who is eligible : The 2004 Board of Director's election is for four seats of the 13 member Board. Any member in good standing is eligible. Per the by-laws, a candidate must be an active member for one full year prior to the November preceding the election, i.e., a member since October 31 , 2002 .
Duties: The Board meets three times yearly . At least one , sometimes two, meetings are direct. Otherwise, the meetings are by e-mail. Members are expected to be active in special projects, convention participation , and recruitment.
Term of office : 3 years starting Fall 2004 ; seating at annual meeting. Limited to two consecutive 3-year terms May seek re-election after one year off Board .
To apply : Submit a statement of no more than 200 words describing qualifications and reasons for wishing to serve. You also may submit an application for another member with the latter's consent .
Send to: John Musser, 5715-82nd Street, Kenosha, WI 53142 or e-mail: musserjd@wi.rr.com.
For further information, use the address above . Nominations must be received by July 31, 2004.
Eligible members will receive a ballot about August 15 , with a return no later than September 15 Results will appear in Creche Herald.
EXCITING MEETING PROGRAM PLANNED
Friends of the Creche Annual Membership Meeting
Date: Saturday, October JO, 2004
Place: Conference Center at Cal Poly University Pomona, California
Friends of the Creche members attending the annual meeting will hear noted folklorist , Doctor Mary MacGregorVillarreal, the keynote speaker for the event.
Since the 1970s, Doctor MacGregor-Villarreal has been researching Mexican Christmas traditions in the southern California area Using slides, she will discuss the history of nacimientos in Mexican homes and how the creches are used ceremoniously during the holiday season.
Her research began with a great personal interest in las posadas, the re-enactment of Mary and Joseph's search for lodging in Bethlehem. From that, she developed an interest in indoor and outdoor nacimientos built on a grand scale by Mexican inhabitants of Los Angeles. In conjunction with an exhibit at the Southwest Museum of that city, she is coauthor with Michael Heisley of More Than a Tradition: Mexican Nacimientos in Los Angeles (1991) .
Afternoon speakers Louise Polsky and Joanne Stevens are residents of southern California Both have been collecting independently for more than thirty years. Polsky will focus on Nativities she has commissioned on her travels. Stevens, a retired history teacher with a passion for the history of the Southwest, will discuss the development of Nativity crafting there.
Registration fee for the meeting is $25. That includes light refreshments during the day, a freshly prepared barbecue lunch on the Conference Center plaza, an exhibit of museumquality Nativities and more. The business meeting, taking place before lunch , will provide an opportunity to voice ideas for the future of the organization.
Pomona is about 30 miles east of Los Angeles Attendees may choose to arrive at one of three airports: Ontario; Los Angeles, Burbank.
The Shilo Hotel, Pomona, is offering a special rate of $72 per night , which includes complimentary shuttles to and from Ontario Airport, and to and from the Conference Center. Also included is a complimentary American style breakfast buffet. Hotel reservations: 909-598-7666. Be sure to mention Friends of the Creche.
Additional information: Judy Davis at 510-237-4885 or e-mail at judydavis12@comcast.net. Watch !or registration form in August members' mailing.
CRECHE BUNTIN G... along the 1-95 Southeast Corridor by Eileen Canty
We have just returned from visits to several southern cities and the discovery of some new and interesting sources . The quest began on the way to Charleston, South Carolina, when we stopped at Mepkin Abbey (1098 Mepkin Abbey Road , Moncks Comer, SC 29461 , www.mepkinabbey org, 843761-8509), a Trappist monastery. The abbey has initiated an annual creche display and their gift shop has a variety of Nativities. For example, they have hand finished dolomite creches from the French Sisters of Bethlehem; bronze items from Maria Laach Monastery in Germany ($25 and up) ; terracotta sets by the Sisters of Saint Joseph ($25) , and bas reliefs by the Little Sisters of Jesus (under $25)
Charleston has a number of Christmas shops witl1 a decent selection of Fontanini, Willowtree , Heartwood Creek, and similar items . Unique , however, is the Clown's Bazaar (56 Broad Street, Charleston, SC 29401 , 843-723-9769) . Named after author Tomie de Paola's Clown of God, the shop showcases folk art by impoverished artists obtained from missions, United Nations , and other outreach agencies New to me were : embroidered Nativity scenes from Guatemala ($25) , a three-inch bean bag set from the Philippines ($25) , and from Viet Nam, a four inch, carved stone set in a straw box that can serve as a stable (about $35) A local artist decorates hen's eggs with Nativity motives ($15-$20)
Along Savannah, Georgia's river walk , Gallery 209 featured a detailed scene by local artist, Ann Merritt . A pricey $3900 clay set, it includes , in addition to the usual characters, owls, hens, nests of eggs, and turtles in a twostory barn. The shop is located at 209 East River Street, Savannah, GA 31401. 913-236-4583
Bozena 's( 230A West Saint Julian Street, City Market , Savannah, GA 31401, 912-234-0086) offers a wide selection of doilies, placemats, etc. with Nativity scenes (about $25)
In Saint Augustine, Florida, I discovered a number of treasures. The Christmas Shop, which shares its space with Tepee Town (12 South Castillo Drive, Saint Augustine, FL 32084 , 800-332-9898, www.tepee.com) has a wide selection of popular creches. New was Greenwich Workshop's James Christensen's porcelain set with its Tolkien-like kings. The Shrine Gift Shop (27 Ocean Avenue, Saint Augustine , FL 32804, 800-342-6529) carried a tasteful selection ofRoman and Enesco items, as well as a beautiful print from Italy
In Daytona Beach, Florida, I located Global Gifts tucked within the El Caribe Motel (2125 South Atlantic Avenue , Daytona Beach, FL32118, 386-252-1558). The hospitable shop owner was on vacation the day I was to stop by so she left the key with the front desk, and told me to " help myself. " I helped myself to a carved and painted bas relief from Indonesia ($44) and a small stuffed fabric set from Nicaragua ($15).
Miami , Florida ' s Mon Bien Aime (10780 West Flagler Street, Miami , FL 33174, 305-553-6680 , www.monbienaime.com) is a gem with a huge inventory of traditional Nativities: a putz-like display with Fontanini figures; creches from ANRI, Kuolt, Hummel, Lladr6 , and a large selection of infants in cribs from China, ranging from tiny to larger than life on sale for about $35.
Collector Eileen Canty write s .from Marion , Massachusetts
From our Readers:
After reading your article about the American Christmas Crib Society (Winter 2003/2004 ), I thought your readers might be interested in this photo of the original seal of the Society. Ettore Formosa , Rome, Italy
1-G. -
I am trying a new venture this year . The Convention and Visitor's Bureau has asked me to give tours during the holidays. They invite groups for one-day visits to the SPAM Museum, the Hormel home (makers of SP AM), the Nature Center, and now, the Holder's creche collection.
Helen Holder, Austin, Minnesota ~·,_ ~·,_ ~·,_ ~·,_ ~·, ~·,
My husband and I built this outdoor creche (see below) in rain and snow storms to get it ready for Christmas. The windows, taken from my mother's cottage when she passed away, make our Nativity very special for me. The structure measures 8 feet wide, 7 feet tall and 6 feet deep. Figures are 2-4 feet tall The creche is illuminated for evening viewing. Carols play continuously.
Charlotte Pratt, Stoddard, New Hampshire
Your commentary on the constitutionality of displaying creches in public places (Spring 2004) reminded me of my own experiences handling such an issue as a member of the Borough Council of Emmaus (Pennsylvania) in December 1965.
At one of our monthly meetings , a woman, introducing herself as being with the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), declared Council had erred in using taxpayers ' funds to purchase a Nativity scene erected in the Borough Triangle downtown She insisted the scene be removed After the Borough Solicitor agreed with that interpretation, the President of Council called for comments I advised Council not to act too hastily, and declared the Nativity would be removed over my dead body . Needless to say bedlam erupted.
Channel 6-TV invited me to Philadelphia to debate a member of the ACLU on the air At the debate , I showed a photo of the Nativity, noting that no religion was mentioned in the scene . I reminded all that the scene commemorated the birth of a man who had spent his whole life helping other people, and had even died for them. We in Emmaus, as many other communities, admired what he did , and sought to honor him . We felt it was legal and proper for a government body to honor an individual who helped others and made the community a better place to live
As part of my argument, I pointed out Reverend Leon Sullivan, a Baptist minister , who had been honored by the City of Philadelphia, and then had used the award money to renovate his church.
That award theory argument ended the debate and helped others in similar situations across the country.
Joseph R. Zeller, New Tripoli, Pennsylvania (Former Mayor of Emmaus and retired Pennsylvania Legislator)
PORTUGAL: Nativity Crafting
It had been many years since we had visited Portugal. At that time , we had driven through the south, impressed with the drama of its coastline , enchanted by its quiet rural villages and enjoying the quality of its foods In December 2003 , we returned, this time with a more specific agenda. We hoped to discover some sources of Nativity artists , and to visit with Maria da Concei9a M Alvim Ferraz, a collector in northern Portugal, near Porto. (See interview this page) .
What a surprise to encounter the hustle , bustle of an industrial northern Portugal . Porto is a major commercial city , home to the University of Porto (where Maria is professor of engineering) , a busy seaport (hence its name) , and an across-the-river neighbor to the port wine center of the world . When we said we thought the name of the city was Oporto , Maria laughed . "O," she said, "means 'the' in Portuguese, and that spelling is not used in Portugal "
Arriving the second week in December, we were lucky to catch a craft fair in Porto showing artisans from all over the country . Two of my favorite Nativity renderings there were of a Holy Family crafted so that they literally sat on a shelf, and Nativities that sat in a miniature clay slipper or an outstretched clay hand (Eduardo Pias).
Thanks also to our host and her husband, Doctor Miguel Ferraz, we visited the studio of artist Delfim Manuel , whose beautifully detailed and graceful figures have won numerous national awards. Delfim's figures usually wear traditional Portuguese garb executed in soft rich colors . Visiting the shop of Olga Marques in the center of Santo Tirso , we found not only her wonderful Nativity figures , but some very contemporary platters and ornaments .
In the historic town ofEstremoz in south central Portugal, we found two artisans crafting colorful folk Nativities typical of the region
We have listed below some sources of hand crafted Nativities . Most did not have e-mail, but first class letters arrive in about a week. All seemed interested in inquiries
The country for all artisans is Portugal.
Delfim Manuel (detailed traditional figures) Casa da Eira , Rua do Loureiro , no 8 , 4795-211 Rebord5es , Santo Tirso , email : Delfi man uel @lix pt
Olga Marques, (traditional figures , nice detail) Centro Comercial dos Carvalhais , Loja #62 , 4780 Santo Tirso
Eduardo e Jesus Pias , (natural color figures ) L.Igreja , 4750-485
Galego s S Martinho , Barcelos. Tel : 253-843-223 , Fax : 253-841851
Irma Flores , (colorful , folk figures) Artesanato Tradicional, Lda ., Largo da Rept'.!blica, 16-A, 7100-505 Estremoz
Maria Luisa Concei,;ao , (colorful folk figure s) Bonecos de Estremoz, Rua Brito Capelo , 33-35 , 7100-518 Estremoz
Pedro Riobom , (contemporary interpretation) Rua Marechal Saldanha 985-1 °Dto, 4100 Porto , email : pedro_ riobom @i ol.pt
Thierry Ferreira , (contemporary stone sculptures)Traves do rio s ec o, 2-Casal da chameca , 2460-480 Alcobar;:a , email : thierry ferreira @hotmail.com
Manuel Gon,;alves Macedo , (contemporary) Lugar Santo Amaro, Santa Maria de Galegos , Barcelos
Lourdes Ferreira , (contemporary) Rua 1, no 635 , Urbanizar;:ao do Lidador , Vila Nova da Telh a, 4470 Maia
Julie Ramellno , (traditional brown pottery) Lugar de Gandarimbra , 4750 Barcelo s
Nadine Gueniou , (Japane se style raku) Perulheira , Fatima, email: nadine.raku @clix.pt RB
Nativity
Collection Augments Family Traditions by Mary
H erz e
l
" Ever since I was a child, Christmas always had a very special meaning for me ," said Maria da Concei9a M .Alvim Ferraz, Santa Maria da Feira, Portugal " At home we had a very big Christmas tree-for my father the tree was nev er big enough-also very big Nativity scenes in which we liked representing a detail of our region 's people Each y ear , the children made new ornaments to offer to the little Jesus . Those too were put on the tree ."
What is traditional about Portuguese Nativities is hard to say. " I think that clay is the most traditional material. The most popular Nativities represent scenes of daily life of the region in which they are made ." Such scenes might include gathering of olives or grapes , or tending farm animals.
" We never thought we were collecting," she confessed " We just wanted to remember where we were in our travels and tried to buy something characteristic. " '
" We have discovered Nativities in places where nobody could imagine finding any . Once we found some behind old books in a comer of a small shop window We couldn ' t resist. " On a trip to Mexico , she and her husband bought so many Nativities they had to buy extra luggage And then friends started to add to their collection with gifts. It was not long before their possessions became " overwhelming ."
Now the Ferraz family has over 700 sets , some of which they personally make, especially Maria ' s mother The sets are displayed in lighted and glass enclosed cases in a special room of their home, very much like a small museum . During the holidays, schoolchildren ' s groups come to visit.
For Maria and her family , " Jesus ' birth brings a special message of hope for a better world. We must participate in that even ifwe must begin many times. "
The Holy Family by Pia s sits on a shelf in the Ferraz collection
Visiting a Nativity Museum Down Under by
Ettore Formosa
Some years ago, I read an article about a Nativity museum in Sydney , Australia, that aroused my curiosity Last year , as my wife and I were vacationing in the area we decided to visit the Nativity House
This private museum was created by Elisabeth Van Mullekom-Cserep, who , with the patience of a Carthusian monk-as we used to say in Italy-and the full involvement of a large family, has collected over 600 Nativities. Most of the works were bought by her on her numerous trips around the world , and each reflects a personal interest or is a reminder of an amusing anecdote with which she regales the listener.
The museum has a bookstore where the visitor can find books, cribs, and all manner of Christmas objects . In a special comer , the owner keeps a kettle which she will heat up , offering the visitor a cup of tea and home-made cake.
Van Mullekom-Cserep' s collection, in showcases standing along the walls of two large rooms full of natural light, follow a well planned thematic display of exhibits. She has cribs from the most unusual countries, including one from Saudi Arabia. Many were especially commissioned.
A talented artist , Van Mullekom-Cserep is the author of a book that includes her paintings , objects from her collection, as well as reflections , poems and articles. She speaks four languages and enjoys multi-cultural connections, being Hungarian by birth , Dutch by marriage, and an Australian citizen. In Barcelona, in 2002, the International Federation of Creche Societies (UN FOE.PRAE) presented her with its prestigious award for her pioneering commitment in spreading and keeping alive the Nativity scene in Australia.
The Nativity House Museum is open from November 1 to December 24 Park-like grounds surround the museum There are picnic tables and benches to enjoy an al fresco repast-all in the shadow of palm trees. After all, in this hemisphere, Christmas comes in the middle of summer and school holidays. Ettore Formosa, Rome, Italy, first wrote this article for 11 Presepio. Permission of the author.
By Mary Herzel
Elisabeth Van Mullekom-Cserep has created a unique Christmas museum in Sydney, Australia. "My purpose is to show how the birth of Jesus is celebrated in today's society enriched with Nativity scenes from all over the world," she says.
Van Mullekom-Cserep traveled to Australia with her husband on their honeymoon Australia, a land of vast frontiers, where sheep outnumbered the people, cast a spell on the young couple and they stayed for ten years before they returned to The Netherlands.
"As my children grew up , I asked myself what I could do to make my life more fulfilling , " she explained. She was soon to find an answer . One Christmas, while shopping , she bought a wood carved German Nativity that enchanted her More shopping of Nativities followed. "Suddenly, I knew exactly what I wanted to do-a public display of Nativities ."
At the first display, people came from the surrounding villages. Then , and as now she continues to do , she gave the donations to charity
In 1983, the family returned to Sydney "In Australia , it is very hard to celebrate Christmas the European way . The country is multi-national, multi-cultural , and multidenominational. In the public schools, children are forbidden to sing Christmas carols because of other nonChristians . Only Santa is allowed."
Eventually, Elisabeth's husband constructed a special building for the Nativities on their six-acre property This is now known as the Nativity House : Christmas Museum Gallery According to Van Mullekom-Cserep, hers is the only Christmas related museum in Australia, and perhaps the whole southern hemisphere. Photos of many of the creches can be seen in her book, Christmas Nativities & Stories (Nativity House Publishing, 2000).
Elisabeth Van Mullekom-Cserep can be reached at nativity@zeta.org au.
Creche Lover Starts Museum
Cl ay col ored scene from Brazil. In th e Nativity Hous e Collection of Eli s abeth Van Mull e kom-C serp , Sydney, Au strali a.
Shepherds Abiding: A Nativity Book of Joy
by
Betsy Scott
Many lucky readers already are familiar with the "Mitford books" by Jan Karon If that is the case, you know this most recent title, Shepherds Abiding (Viking, 2003), takes place at Christmas time. The series tracks an Episcopalian minister, Father Tim Kavanaugh, in the mythical town of Mitford, North Carolina. Mitford is populated with charming characters and eccentrics, each with a lesson to teach
In the first book, we met Father Tim, at age 60 , a lifelong bachelor. A rich widow in town tried to change his status, until a children's book illustrator moved in next door to the parsonage, and Father Tim was never the same .
I happened upon the Shepherds Abiding volume, the eighth in the series, during a long layover in the Chicago airport while returning to the West Coast after the Creches By The Sea convention. ItappearsthatFatherTimhascome across a derelict Nativity scene, including a flock of sheep that is the worse for wear. Although he has never worked with his hands , except for gardening, cooking, and washing his dog, the pastor resolves to restore the Nativity as a surprise for his wife, Cynthia . The entire town becomes involved in his journey of the spirit.
Readers can read an excerpt from the book by going onlineto www.mitfordbooks.com. The site also is interactive and digital images are solicited. Betsy Scott lives in Salem , Oregon
*****
CRECHE HERALD NEWSMAKER
Helen Holder , Austin, Minnesota, and her collection were featured in the Austin Daily Herald; she also was interviewed Christmas Eve by KAAL-TV
*****
Events that Celebrate the Season
The Samuel S. Fleisher Art Memorial, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, recently was given a Neapolitan presepio. The " market" section of the display , a special feature of the Neapolitan scene, will be highlighted during the city's Italian Market Festival June 5 and 6 to honor both the food and folk art traditions of Italy , and Naples in particular.
The full 94-figure presepio will be displayed in December in the Fleisher Sanctuary, an Italianate romanesque revival church building: 719 Catharine Street. Tel: 215-922-3456, x . 300 for information. www.fleisher.org
Creche Herald
Editor/publisher: Rita B. Bocher
Contributing editor: Mary B. Herzel
Communications: Frank B. Herzel
117 Crosshill Road, Wynnewood, PA 19096-3511 US.A
Web page: www op.net/-bo cassoc/ E-mail : crecher@op net
Printed by Saint Joseph's University Press , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Creche Herald Contest Attracts Beautiful Photographs
The Creche Herald Photo Contest attracted a wealth of beautiful images of fascinating interpretations of the Nativity All photographs received were turned over to the Antonelli Institute of Art and Photography, and were judged by Andrew Simcox, Director of Special Events, and Janelle Nein, a professional photographer.
First place was garnered by Victor Agius , Xaghra, Gozo , Malta Judges were especially impressed by the three dimensional quality he achieved with his lighting. Agius, a University student, is an avid creator of Nativity scenes.
Frederic Sprunger , Orrville, Ohio, won second prize . His scene was noteworthy for the elegant simplicity of his arrangement, and the serenity it conveyed. Third prize went to Carol Hopping, La Verne, California. Judges liked her sharp , bright colors which captured the joy of the scene . A special honorable mention was bestowed upon Shirley Squires, Guilford, Vermont.
Agius received the grand prize of the sterling silver Creche Herald pendant, and a book on photography from the Antonelli Institute. Sprunger and Hopping received photo bags from the Antonelli Institute , which also gave certificates to all the winners .
Photos of the top winners appear on the back cover.
Detail of photo by Shirley Squires, Guilford , Vermont , which received honorable mention in the Cre che Herald Photo Contest. The Amish set is by Esther O ' Hara , Pennsylvania
Santon Stories of Villagers as
recounted
by Charles Des Ruisseaux
On December 24, it was very cold and windy in Bethlehem. Everyone in town went to bed early and pulled the heavy blankets over their heads to keep warm. The howling wind blew all the clouds away, and millions of sparkling stars could be seen shining overhead
Then , in the sky above the town appeared the angel known as Boufareu which means "Big Cheeks" because he would blow up his cheeks with air whenever he blew his horn. Big Cheeks blew his trumpet really loud that day to announce that the Good God (le Bon Dieu, as we say in French) had become a Daddy. His son was born in a nearby stable.
At that moment, many little miracles happened to the different people of Bethlehem.
Seraphin, the gypsy, was a rascal who didn't work and would steal food during the night. Just before midnight, he had broken into a hen house and stolen some eggs and a chicken which he was planning to cook for his Christmas dinner. (It is interesting that this was the first Christmas, and he already had made plans for a special day).
When the gypsy heard Big Cheeks blow his trumpet, and the other angels singing "Gloria in Excelsis Deo," the first little miracle happened. Seraphin felt guilty for the first time in his life , and almost returned the eggs and chicken to their owner But, he reasoned , " I' 11 give them to the newborn Son of God ." When he offered them to Mary and Joseph, Mary said, " Thank you. I realize that you have a big heart, but my Son would prefer that you give them back to their owner " From that day , the gypsy never stole again.
That same night, Madame Ariel had a very sick child. While everyone slept, the mother sat next to the youngster's bed, trying to cool its fever At the sound of the trumpets, she ran to the window to stare at the unusual sight. When she turned , she found, to her amazement, that her little boy was awake and his fever was gone. She bundled him, and ran outside to join the other villagers to thank the new-born Lord for her miracle She brought a jug of water as her gift for the baby and his parents. Water is a precious commodity in the dry Holy Land , even today.
Gabriel, the shepherd, was alone on the hillside with his sheep Next to him lay his faithful dog who had died that afternoon. When Gabriel heard the good news, he said to himself, "I can't go to the stable because I am too sad. It would not be right to go to such a joyous event with tears in my eyes But I can ' t help it. My dog is gone and he was my best friend ." Suddenly, the dog started to move. He got up as if he had been sleeping Gabriel's sadness turned into tears of joy. He decided to go to the stable and offer his dog to Jesus as a present. But Mary said, " No, thank you Keep your beautiful dog. You need him more than we do. My Son will someday be a shepherd too, a shepherd of people, and for that He does not need a dog ."
It is stories like those that parents in Provence tell their children at Christmas, and they usually end this way: After the people of Bethlehem had brought their best gifts to the Christ Child, in gratitude to the Good God who had made little miracles to better their lives, they were turned into statues . Now we can take them out every year to display in our Nativity scenes to remind us that on that first Christmas, the Good God gave us the best gift ever-his Son, Jesus Christ.
More Vi,gnettes of Santon Gifts as recounted by Betsy Christensen
One of my favorite stories is about the old man who is always placed on a path near the edge of the village. He has no gift for the Baby in the manger, but holds his lantern high to help light the way for the other villagers bearing gifts. To the French, he does have a gift, one of thoughtfulness , helpfulness, and courtesy.
Another favorite is the woman bearing a bunch of twigs for the fire to keep the Holy Family warm . She has no money to buy a gift, but she has gathered as many twigs as she can carry to the manger. She represents the poorest of the villagers, and almost all the santonniers represent her in their collections (I personally have about 28 of this one figure, in every size, some clothed, some hand painted clay , one even carved in wood)
The ravi is another important figure . He often is referred to as the village simpleton. He always is portrayed with his hands raised high over his head. He is said to be the only person in the village who truly understand the importance of the birth of Jesus , and he is overwhelmed by the magnitude of the event. He has a debate with the Mayor (the most educated of the villagers) about the Christ Child ' s birth , and because of the wonderful new insight he has received , he wins the debate.
Other santons include a farmer with a pig who is searching for truflles with his long nose. Another is a lady force-feeding a goose who is enclosed in a slatted wooden crate. The goose is not allowed to walk so that his liver will grow very large, making the most delicious fois gras. Then there is the santon who comes to be a wet nurse for the Baby so that Mary can have a nap
A santon farmer searches for truffles with his pig. This clothed figure is from the collection of Betsy Christensen
CRECHE HERALD READER SURVEY
All responses are confidential and will be tabulated so that your returns will be anonymous.
1. About how many Nativity scenes do you own? one --more than one
2. If you own only one Nativity scene, about how many figures in your display?
3. If more than one, about how many do you own? __
4. Is your collection specialized? (For example: collect only Magi, only Latin American, only folk art, etc.)? _yes _no
4a . If yes, how would you describe your specialty?
_ only Magi
_ only antique Neapolitan figures
_ only folk art
_ only Latin American Other. Name
5 About how many countries or cultures are represented in your collection?
6. For the following qualities, please rank their importance to you when purchasing a Nativity where 1 = the most important and 6 = the least important. material/medium
region/country of origin brand name
- artist/craftsperson who created Nativity
uniqueness of interpretation colorfulness
7. Where do you exhibit your Nativity scenes? (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY) at home only for family and personal friends =home exhibit open to public at church
at school/ gallery/museum
_ Other Please specify _______
8. Have you made a Nativity purchase in past 12 months?
__ yes _no
8a. If yes, about how much was your most recent purchase?
Individual figure/item less than $20 _ $20 or more
Set (3 or more figures) _ less than $50 $50 or more
9. What are your long-term plans for your collection? (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY) _give to family member/friend _donate to museum/gallery donate to church -sell
other Name~------Don't know/ not sure
10. How do you catalogue your collection ?
_ do not catalogue at present
_ use cards , notebook, other manual system
_ all information is in the computer
11. The following topics are covered in Creche Herald. If you think the incidence is just right, mark an o : if you would like more, mark +; if you would like less, mark-. travel related articles crafts/ how-to activities
__ purchasing sources children oriented articles/stories Nativity related events/exhibits historical information
__ myths, legends book reviews = interesting collections other. Name
12. Where do you purchase Nativities? Use the following scale: 1 = often; 2 = sometimes; 3 = not at all . You may use a number more than once auctions/flea markets on line fairs/craft shows/conventions =local shops
_ commission artist/craftsperson on travels Other Name
Demographics of Person Completing Survey
Gender: Female Male
Membership in a collector's society? (CHECKALLTHAT APPLY) Friends of the Creche Fontanini
Age: Hummel Golden Glow of Christmas Past Other Name Under 45 45 or older
Comments?______________
Please respond by email or snail mail by August 1, 2004 to: Creche Herald
THANK YOU. 117 Crosshill Road Wynnewood, PA 19096-3511 crecher@op.net
First Place: Victor Agius , Xaghra , Gozo , Malta .
Second Place: Frederic Sprunger, Orrville, Ohio
Third Place: Carol Hopping, La Verne , California
