The tradition of Bambinelli Sunday was begun during The papacy of Pope John Paul II to remind families about the joyous event of Baby Jesus’ arrival in the manger and is celebrated on the third Sunday of Advent. On that day children gather with their families in St. Peter’s Square and bring figures of the Christ Child (Bambinelli’s) from their family’s Nativity scene. During the noontime Angelus prayer, Pope Francis blesses the children and the figurines they have brought.
Today that tradition has spread throughout the world as a powerful witness to the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. The Nativity scene is a school of life where we can learn the secret of pure love and joy. Please bring your Baby Jesus from your Nativity set to Mass for a special blessing.
Now celebrated in other churches around the world, this Advent tradition is a way for children to connect their Nativity scene at home to the celebration of Christmas at their church.
