Symbolism of the Resurrection of Jesus

St. Francis of Assisi

• St. Francis created a live Nativity scene, complete with a manger, animals, and actors portraying Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds, which is considered the first living Nativity scene.
• He was born in 1181 or 1182 in Assisi, Italy, and is one of the most revered saints in Christian history.
• He is known for his radical devotion to Christ, his commitment to poverty, humility, and simplicity, and his love for all of God's creation.
• He renounced his wealth and inheritance to live a life of poverty and service to God.
• He is the patron saint of ecology and the founder of the Franciscan Order.

The Significance of the Nativity Scene

• The Nativity scene, also known as Belen, has become a cherished Christmas tradition in many cultures around the world.
• It serves as a visual representation of the birth of Jesus and a reminder of the humble circumstances of his arrival.
• It continues to be a focal point of Christmas celebrations, bringing joy and inspiration to millions of people each year.

The Resurrection of Jesus

• The Resurrection of Jesus symbolizes the first creation by echoing the act of bringing life out of chaos and darkness.
• It signifies a restoration of order and meaning in the face of sin and death.
• It represents the fulfillment of God's plan for redemption, reuniting humanity with God as in the perfect union of the first creation.
• It symbolizes new creation by inaugurating a new era where sin and death are overcome, offering believers the chance for spiritual rebirth and transformation.

The Significance of Easter

• Easter is profoundly significant for Christians as it serves as the cornerstone of their faith, validating Jesus' identity as the Son of God and affirming his triumph over sin and death.
• It provides believers with hope, redemption, and assurance of salvation, demonstrating God's power to overcome evil and offering the promise of eternal life.
• Easter symbolizes new beginnings, spiritual renewal, and victory over death, reminding Christians of their shared identity and community grounded in the Resurrection.

The Preparation for the Coming of the Messiah

• God prepared for the coming of the Messiah through prophecy, as foretold by the Old Testament prophets, detailing aspects of the Messiah's birth, ministry, and redemption.
• He established covenants with figures like Abraham and David, promising a lineage and kingdom for the Messiah.
• Throughout history, God prepared the Jewish people through their culture, religious practices, and longing for a deliverer.
• God sent John the Baptist as a forerunner to prepare the hearts of people through repentance and testimony to Jesus as the awaited Messiah.

The Significance of Advent

• Advent marks the beginning of the liturgical year and serves as a period of spiritual preparation for the celebration of Jesus Christ's birth at Christmas.
• It prompts believers to reflect on the historical event of the Incarnation while also directing their attention to the future return of Christ.
• Advent encourages individuals to engage in practices of prayer, fasting, and acts of charity as a means of preparing their hearts to receive Christ anew.
• Advent is characterized by cultural and family traditions that foster a sense of anticipation and expectation leading up to the Christmas season.