Every year we set up a traditional manger scene near our Christmas tree. There are Mary and Joseph, a shepherd and a few sheep, three wise men and at least one camel, and the baby Jesus.

By the time Joseph and Mary arrive, the only room available is a corner in the open stall area among the livestock, where a manger stands. Still, this is within the family compound, and inside they ...

Mary and Joseph, answering a census, find no room at the inn in Bethlehem. Jesus is born in a stable and laid in a manger. Shepherds, alerted by an angel, visit the stable, as do kings bearing gifts.

The angels left and the shepherds decided to go to Bethlehem. They found Mary and Joseph and saw the baby lying in the manger. The shepherds returned, praising God for all they had heard and seen.

Joseph and Mary stayed in the stable and made it as comfortable as they could. Just as the angel had said, Mary gave birth and Jesus was born. Mary laid baby Jesus in a manger which is where the ...