I have ranted and raved over this before. The manger scene as with any floral or other types of decorations should never be placed directly in front of the altar, ambo or chair. These three liturgical furnishings, the most important in the sanctuary, should be highlighted, framed, but not blocked or obscured.
Thus where o where should the manger be placed. It is best placed in a side chapel or by a side altar, like the tabernacle is in so many places.
St. Joseph in Macon as well as Savannah’s cathedral have large side chapels and that is where the manger, very elaborate for the Cathedral, is placed.
St. Anne in Richmond Hill, places it along a side wall where there is plenty of room to walk.
DO NOT PLACED DECORATIONS, ESPECIALLY A MANGER SCENE IN FRONT OF THE ALTAR, EVER!!!
However, I like what some places do, like Saint Peter’s Basilica. There is a Gospel platform where the Baby Jesus is placed and revealed before Mass and then after Mass the Baby Jesus is processed to the manger scene. St. Peter’s has an elaborate one in a side chapel toward the left entrance of the basilica.
1 comment:
My understanding is that nothing should prevent the priest from accessing the altar.
The floral displays/nativities before the altar would prevent access.
I have also grown to dislike the candle holders framing Roman altars like a catafalque. Then, there's this newer obsession that the altar be completely clear save for the accumulation that surrounds it. True, the first altars were the tombs of saints and martyrs. The Church, however, came out of the catacombs over 1,500 years ago. This doesn't mean it is necessary, or good to continue replicating the practice.
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