Ukrainian Catholic ChurchAustralia, New Zealand and Oceania
Nativity scene in Perth
December 26, 2023
On Monday, December 25, on the Feast of the Nativity of Christ, the parishioners of the church of St. John the Baptist in Perth, Western Australia, had the opportunity to participate in a special Christmas event — the nativity scene.
The tradition of Christmas performances — nativity scenes — in Ukraine was formed and developed over several centuries. At first, these were puppet shows, but today they are mostly shows with live actors. An invariable feature of the nativity scene is that it intertwines two storylines: Christmas scenes and pictures from everyday life and folk life. They very often present certain socio-political events important for Ukrainian society. The main characters are usually Angels, Shepherds, Three Kings, Devil, Death, King Herod and his soldiers, Cossacks, and others.
This year, the parishioners in Perth decided to keep this wonderful Ukrainian tradition and decorate the Christmas celebration by preparing a Christmas nativity scene. Therefore, on Monday, after the liturgy, all those present in the church had the opportunity to watch the performance about the birth of the Savior, as well as to carol together with the carolling actors.
The administrator of the parish of St. John the Baptist in Perth, Fr. Ihor Holovko, emphasised that Christmas this year is special because it is accompanied by a feeling of unity with the entire Christian world as we all celebrate together according to the new calendar. The nativity scene prepared by the parishioners became a wonderful gift for all present and strengthened the feeling of a joint feast.
The faithful from the Orthodox parish also took part in the nativity scene, which, according to Fr. Ihor, is another confirmation that our church is open and that in that Christmas pilgrimage we, following the example of kings and shepherds, should unite around our Lord Jesus Christ, who is one for all.
