PHOTOS: Living nativity takes to the streets of Rome

Rome, Italy, Dec 19, 2022 / 03:00 am (CNA).

Catholics from Italy participated in a re-enactment of the Christmas story in Rome on Saturday.

The processional living nativity began outside Rome’s cathedral, the Basilica of St. John Lateran, and proceeded down Via Merulana, a major thoroughfare, to reach the Basilica of St. Mary Major.

Credit: Alan Koppschall/CNA.

The Dec. 17 living nativity concluded at a stable set up at the entrance of the basilica dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

Credit: Alan Koppschall/CNA.

The walk was followed by the recitation of the Christmas Novena, and the Mass, celebrated by Cardinal Angelo De Donatis, the vicar of Rome.

Credit: Alan Koppschall/CNA.

The living nativity kicked off with a re-enactment of Pope Innocent III’s approval of the rule for the Franciscan Order as written and presented by St. Francis of Assisi.

Credit: Alan Koppschall/CNA.

St. Francis then led the procession, which included people dressed as Mary and Joseph, as they acted out along the street the search for a place to sleep in Bethlehem.

Credit: Alan Koppschall/CNA.

Families dressed as traditional Roman artisans, Roman soldiers, and other characters from the story of Christ’s birth also joined the walk.

Credit: Alan Koppschall/CNA.

Actors from living nativities around Italy joined the initiative, which the Rome diocese said was “encouraged by Pope Francis, who has personally inspected the project.”

Credit: Alan Koppschall/CNA.