The truth is like a lion; you don’t have to defend it. Let it loose; it will defend itself. St Augustine

GAUDETE SUNDAY | Bambinelli Sunday

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Saint John Henry Newman, Victoria, BC

Bambinelli Sunday occurs on the Third Sunday of Advent, Gaudete Sunday, a time when the faithful prepare for the coming of Christ at Christmas.

Historical Context and Significance

The Blessing of the Bambinelli was first instituted by St. John Paul II. On the Third Sunday of Advent, the children of Rome are encouraged to bring figurines of the baby Jesus from each of their Nativity sets to St. Peter’s Square.

The celebration of Bambinelli Sunday has its roots in the Italian custom of blessing figurines of the Baby Jesus that families use in their nativity scenes. The event serves as a reminder of the importance of the nativity scene in the Christmas celebration, which symbolizes God's incarnation and His closeness to humanity. By reminding the faithful of God's physical presence in the earth, the nativity scene is "like a living Gospel," bringing the message of the Incarnation into homes and communities.

 Celebration and Rituals

On Bambinelli Sunday, families are encouraged to bring their figurines of the Baby Jesus to church for a special blessing during Mass. This act not only sanctifies the figurines but also serves as a moment for families to reflect on the meaning of Christmas and the significance of the Incarnation. 

The blessing of the Bambinelli is a way to prepare spiritually for the celebration of Christmas, fostering a deeper connection to the mystery of Jesus' birth.

Theological Reflection

Bambinelli Sunday invites the faithful to contemplate the humility of Christ's birth. The Baby Jesus, depicted in the nativity scene, represents God's love and humility, as He chose to enter the world in the most vulnerable form. This event encourages a spirit of joy and tenderness, reminding believers of the importance of welcoming Christ into their lives and homes.

Bambinelli Sunday is a beautiful tradition that enriches the Advent season, inviting families to engage with the mystery of the Incarnation through the blessing of their nativity figurines, thereby deepening their faith and preparation for Christmas.

References

  1. General Audience of 18 December 2019 / Pope Francis
  2. https://www.nationalshrine.org/blog/the-tradition-of-the-blessing-of-the-bambinelli/
  3. General Audience of 17 December 2008: Spiritual meaning of Christmas / Pope Benedict XVI
  4. To the young people of Catholic Action (December 22, 1986) - Speech / Pope Saint John Paul II
  5. To the children (January 5, 1965) - Speech / Pope Saint Paul VI

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