Nativity scenes around the diocese

An outdoor Nativity scene, erected by Missionhurst Fr. Tim Atkin, sits outside the Missionhurst provincial house in Arlington, inviting passersby to reflect on the meaning of Christmas. MATT RIEDL | CATHOLIC HERALD

Church staff member Kim Kenna places the Baby Jesus in his manger in a large nativity scene in the courtyard of St. Timothy Church in Chantilly. Bishop Michael F. Burbidge was scheduled to celebrate the Christmas Vigil Mass at St. Timothy at 4:30 p.m. Dec. 24. LESLIE MILLER | CATHOLIC HERALD

Mary and Joseph adore the infant Jesus under the shelter of a lit Christmas tree at Marymount University in Arlington. COURTESY NICHOLAS MUNSON MARYMOUNT UNIVERSITY | COURTESY

The figures of Mary and Joseph await the arrival of the Christ child at Christmas in front of a painted backdrop of Bethlehem at St. Ann Church in Arlington. ANN AUGHERTON | CATHOLIC HERALD

The Nativity scene is shown in front of St. Matthew Church in Spotsylvania Dec 19. Parishioners made the roof to shelter the Mary, Jesus and Joseph statues. ASHLEIGH KASSOCK | FOR THE CATHOLIC HERALD

The Nativity scene is shown in front of St. Matthew Church in Spotsylvania Dec 19. ASHLEIGH KASSOCK | FOR THE CATHOLIC HERALD

The Holy Family is seen in a Nativity at St. Matthew Church in Spotsylvania Dec 19. ASHLEIGH KASSOCK | FOR THE CATHOLIC HERALD

A large nativity scene stands in the courtyard at St. Timothy Church in Chantilly. LESLIE MILLER | CATHOLIC HERALD