Asian

Our Nativity Scene depicting the Asian cultures is rich in natural elements. The figures are painted in lively colors which are prominent in our festivals. The table skirt is a sari, a ceremonial Indian cloth. The bamboo framework represents the ubiquitous utilitarian plant that is abundant in both the temperate (like Japan) and tropical (like Indonesia) Asian countries.
Grasses are prominent in the lowlands of India, Philippines and Singapore, among many others. The Star of Hope is vintage Philippines: made of dyed capiz shells with Nippon paper bouquet.

THANKS to all who helped in preparing this table: Johnny Campos, Dr. E. Jane Hall, Ursula Gebhardt, Sujatha Kemler, Rossy Landers, Inge & Leonard Lumpkin, Alton Mohrbacher, Lisa Pusey.

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European-Russian

The European-Russian interpretation of the Nativity Scene features the lush forests of our middle and northern countries. Wood is a basic element in many are forms in our area. The colors are subtle yet defined, the expression is articulate yet divine. The animals featured in this display are seen in many pasturelands of Germany, Poland, France, England, Spain and others. The moss, ever green and lovely, are prominent in Ireland and in many other Scandinavian countries. Glass has been used to express Catholic art for centuries.

THANKS to all who helped in preparing this table: Dr. E. Ursula Gebhardt, Rossy Landers, Inge & Leonard Lumpkin.

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Hispanic

Religion permeates every aspect of Hispanic life. Catholic festivals are celebrated as national holidays. They are opportunities for communities to gather and for families to help one another. The days are sunny yet the nights are mild. Music abounds in almost all corners of the towns. The flora and fauna in this nativity display are typical of those which are seen in many countries of South America, from Mexico to Argentina. The Baby Jesus is celebrated in many art forms, and the Christ figure are depicted in many mountaintops.

THANKS for all who helped in preparing this table: Regina Arevalos, Juan Bustamante, Dr. E. Ursula Gebhardt, Jane Hall, Sujatha Kemler, Inge & Leonard Lumpkin, Rossy Landers.

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Africa/Mediterranean

The beautiful continent of Africa shares many cultural similarities with the Mediterranean countries. There is a constant interplay of soil and sand, a dynamic changing pattern that affects the livelihood and population distribution in our continent. It is blessed with numerous natural resources & features many flora and fauna that are imported to many other parts of the world. The Catholic religion is making its presence more felt throughout the region and the yearning for peace is our daily prayer. The table skirt is a kwanzaa cloth.

THANKS to all who helped in preparing this table: Juan Bustamante, Sheila Cotman, Dr. E. Ursula Gebhardt, Jane Hall, Rossy Landers, Inge & Leonard Lumpkin, Alton Mohrabacher, Leroy Orie, Richard Tate.

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