On This Date in Nativity History

November 1984

In this month, the “Risen Christ” statue ordered by Fr. Ready near the end of his pastorate was received and installed in the new sanctuary area.  Soon after he arrived at Nativity in 1984, Fr. Sal Ciullo began to introduce a number of changes in the layout and furnishing of the church, including moving the sanctuary permanently to its present location.  The “Risen Christ” statue was installed in various locations in the church, depending on the liturgical season and preferences of the pastor.  These photos illustrate the transformation of the sanctuary through the 1980s and 1990s, including the location and treatment of the Risen Christ statue.  The first photo is from 1984 or 1985, and features Nativity Knight of Columbus Jim Fischl presenting awards to two winners (not identified) of the local Knights’ Essay Contest.  Note the bare brick walls, the sparse plant decorations, the location of the Risen Christ statue, and the plain glass in the window.

In the next photo, from spring, 2001, note the stained-glass window, the marble cladding on the wall, and the stone ambo and surround for the tabernacle.  The event was a farewell ceremony for the second principal of Nativity School, Patricia Beeks.  From the left: Chris Reed, President, Nativity PTO; Kathi Oliva; and Mrs. Beeks.

The last photo shows the statue in its present location at the rear of the church (photo by Mary Castellano).

 

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