News & Reflections
Nativity Scenes
Limerick December 24th 2011 - On the absence of visible evidence of the Nativity in the marketplace of the new secular Ireland, the Augustinians in Limerick place large paintings of the Scriptural story of Christmas in their downstairs windows fronting Limerick’s Main St.
The hope is that the images may remind shoppers of the ultimate reasons for the festive celebrations, the parties and the exchange of gifts. Our reflective artist Des Langford wonders why we can’t paint the full reality of Our Lady’s pregnancy, why the bump has to be hidden beneath layers of immaculate whites and blues. I remind him that a Renaissance artist ended up in prison for his realistic presentation of the Word made Flesh, that his church patrons withdrew their support. When we listen to women who have given birth they have some interesting insights into bridging the gap between the Immaculate Conception and their experience!
Scriptural story of Christmas in a downstairs window
The Christmas Story on the windows fronting Limerick’s Main St.