Congo

The following Nativities are each displayed in a unique permanent setting created by Marian Library Crèche Collection volunteers. The descriptive text for each was written by Father Johann Roten, S.M.

Challenge of Inculturation
Ano Mbuta in Kinshasa
Congo (Democratic Republic)

The figures of this set, made of Lifaki wood, are of exquisite beauty not least because of the physical beauty of African men and women. The polished smoothness of the wood and the careful attention given to detail lend these figures a heightened expression of physical presence and realism. We have here an example of successful inculturation where the physical type meets sociological reality (various occupations) without diminishing the spiritual meaning of the Nativity scene.

– ML.2633