For many, Christmas is summarized in one iconic scene. The manger that housed Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus has become a symbol of hope across the globe, spanning continents, cultures and generations.
St. Clement Catholic Church is bringing works of art from around the world to Plant City. Its second annual Nativities Around the World event is showcasing approximately 500 nativity displays ranging from natural to man-made materials from every corner of the Earth.
Rev. Henry Riffle decided 37 years ago to stop smoking, choosing to use the money he would have spent on cigarettes to fuel his other addiction: collecting unique nativity scenes. His first purchase, nearly four decades ago, was of a Precious Moments nativity scene. The match was lit and his passion still burns to this day.
“I’ve been seriously collecting since 1980,” Riffle said. “Growing up we had a tradition of setting up a nativity scene in our own home. That’s where it all began for me.”
Riffle, an avid traveler, spent the last few decades picking up exclusive nativity displays from countries across the globe. He has displays from Ecuador, South Africa, France, Aruba and more. Each scene represents not only the culture of the people who created the display, but also the underlying fascination with Christ’s birth found in each society.
The scene from Ecuador is made of cookie dough. One from the U.S. is made entirely of paper mache. The Vietnam display is crafted out of mother of pearl. Riffle said each arrangement he picks up has to offer something special, something one-of-a-kind that makes it worth being put in the annual exhibit.
Only part of the 500-plus piece collection was purchased by Riffle. Many of those included were gifted to him after his friends and congregation learned of his immense hobby.
“What do you buy a priest if he doesn’t drink, if he doesn’t smoke and if he doesn’t gamble?” Riffle said. “He collects nativities, get him a nativity.”
Next year, St. Clement’s hopes to include info cards for the displays so attendees can indulge in a self-guided tour. Each of the pieces has a story behind how they were obtained or made and Dan Alacorn, a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 8095, said it would enhance viewers’ experiences, adding a level of depth the collection.
“We’re talking about combing all or several of our holiday type events into one large day so that the community can know about all that we do here,” Alacorn said. “We’ve got big plans and I’m looking forward to seeing what’s to come.”
Riffle said nativities carry the theme of joy to the world. He said the universality of recognizing Christ’s coming is a tradition held across the globe, making the event a must see for people of all ages and cultures.
Nativities Around the World is a free event, though guests are encouraged to leave contributions. All the contributions are sent to charities by the Knights of Columbus, like centers for the disabled and the Pregnancy Care Center in Plant City.
Doors open after masses on weekends and special viewings can be arranged by contacting Carol Rodriguez at 813-727- 5214 or crodriguez@stclementpc.org. Riffle said if viewers take their time, it should take approximately an hour to look at all of the items.