Returning from a Christmas visit to Charleston, I stopped in Savannah to see the Nativity scene that Brother Robert and Orlando Cuadra put up every year in the Cathedral of St. John. It’s not precisely a Spanish style scene, but is close enough and combines the Spanish/Italian style with the charming touches of its builders.
First, we see people coming to a sudden stop to take photos of the scene and the dramatic star behind it. Getting a clear field to take photos is difficult, because people flock to see the scene. In this case, it was just before Mass, so there was an element of haste!
Next we see the right side of the scene, which shows the Kings and their camels on the way to Bethlehem. Behind it is the Crucifix that is permanently mounted over a side altar in that part of the church. (There is also another set of Kings, approaching from the other side of the main altar – they are moved closer every day until they arrive on Epiphany.)
Here is the portal or the stable. Notice all the little birds perched on the roof.
Finally, we have the beautiful Misterio, the scene inside the stable. As usual, it is filled with a whimsical profusion of animals, which of course are greatly loved by the children who visit the scene. In fact, it was hard to get a clear shot of the scene because so many children were clustered in front of it, busy counting the animals, identifying them, looking for them, etc.
Once again, Brother Robert and Orlando have done a spectacular job! Many thanks to them for their time and effort – and I’m sure I speak for the people of Savannah, too.
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