For more than 20 years the Blessed Michael McGivney Pilgrimage Center, formerly known as the Knights of Columbus Museum, has welcomed visitors from near and far to experience the wonders of Christmas from all around the world.
And the tradition continues! This year, the McGivney Center is proud to present "Christmas in the Americas," a breathtaking showcase of Nativity scenes from across North and South America. Opening its doors on November 10, 2023, this extraordinary exhibit will feature 50 crèches representing 18 countries. In an exciting parallel display, "Celebrating 800 Years of the Crèche" takes you on a journey through time, tracing the evolution of this beloved art form. Discover the roots of the crèche, dating back to that iconic Christmas in 1223 when St. Francis of Assisi brought the Nativity scene to life with people and animals.
From these humble beginnings, the depiction of Christ's birth, as recounted in the Bible, has transformed into a cherished and widespread tradition in Christian cultures worldwide. Each December, crèches grace the halls of Christian churches, adorn homes, and even light up public squares. These unique scenes often incorporate elements and customs from their places of origin, crafted from materials indigenous to those regions.
But there's more! Be sure to mark your calendars for the Christmas Tree Festival, opening its doors on December 9, 2023. Witness the incredible creativity of Connecticut's schoolchildren, as they turn everyday items like pipe cleaners, pine cones, construction paper, and milk cartons into heartwarming expressions of their faith, preserving the timeless story of Jesus' birth in Bethlehem over two millennia ago.
You're invited to experience this magical celebration at the McGivney Center, conveniently located at 1 State Street in New Haven. Join us from Wednesdays through Sundays, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Best of all, admission is free, and there's onsite parking for your convenience. For more information, feel free to contact us at 203-865-0400 or visit our website at michaelmcgivneycenter.org.
Don't miss the chance to be part of this extraordinary holiday tradition that has captivated hearts for over two decades. See you there!
Photo: Italy- Knights of Columbus Museum Inc. Collection. Photo by Aaron Joseph.