Poland – The Living Nativity in Oświęcim: a light that leads to God for over 40 years

10 January 2025
Photo: Małgorzata Latawiec

(ANS – Oświęcim) – The premiere of the Living Crib 2025, which in Polish is called Jasełka, took place on the stage of the Salesian Theatre in Oświęcim on Monday 6 January 2025, the Solemnity of the Epiphany. This performance, which has been staged in the theatre for over 40 years, has become one of the highlights of the calendar in the parish of Mary Help of Christians in Oświęcim, in the Saint Hyacinth Province of Krakow, Poland (PLS). In this year's edition, the Christmas tradition was enriched by a deep spiritual message and numerous references to Polish cultural heritage.

The event took place under the motto: "The Christmas Feast will show you the way, walk the Way of Light to go to God who is waiting for you in Heaven". A message that invited spiritual reflection on the meaning of Christmas and guided the public to find their place in the journey of faith.

The director of this year's representation of the Nativity was, as in previous years, Mrs Jolanta Zapała, who once again brought not only her experience and her commitment, but also a new perspective to this show. The staging, although set in the classic Christmas tradition, contained numerous regional and historical tones. Characters dressed in regional costumes were seen on stage: Highlanders from Podhale, Krakowians and Mazurianians The audience was able to admire traditional dances and listen to Christmas hymns characteristic of various regions of Poland.

Dozens of children and adults linked to the Salesian Work in Oświęcim participated in this year's representation of the Nativity. The angels, both the youngest from the Zaborze kindergarten and the oldest – students from the Grojec school – brought to the stage a joy and a grace admired by all. The other actors, from different schools and from all over the city of Oświęcim, also performed in different stage roles and their performances were the most beautiful fruits of the previous enormous preparation work, which began as early as October.

The organisation of this event was possible thanks to the commitment of many people and institutions. In addition to the director, special thanks went to the parish of Mary Help of Christians in Oświęcim, to the Salesians and to all the actors and volunteers. Financial support for the initiative was provided, among others, by the Office of the Marshal of the Małopolska Region, the Oświęcim Municipality and the Oświęcim Town Hall.

The Salesian Living Nativity Scene is not only a theatrical performance, but above all a spiritual event that unites the generations and enriches the life of the parish community. Combining tradition, history and universal values, this year's performance has become a beautiful testimony of faith, love and hope.

Fr Krzysztof Papierz, SDB

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ANS - “Agenzia iNfo Salesiana” is a on-line almost daily publication, the communication agency of the Salesian Congregation enrolled in the Press Register of the Tibunal of Rome as n 153/2007.

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