First brought about by Pope John Paul II, the tradition follows that on the third Sunday of advent, children and adults bring baby Jesus figures from their homes to St Peter’s Square where they are blessed by the Pope.
Rather taken by this Christmas tradition, Fr John Carroll established it in his own parish of Glynn/Barntown seven years ago and it’s one that was immediately taken into the hearts of his parishioners.
Once again over the weekend, large crowds were in attendance as children were invited up to the altar to play their part in the celebration. Fr John paid particular tribute to the parents, children and staff of the local schools, describing it as “a monumental turnout”.As well as having their Jesus figures blessed and ready to return to their own cribs at home, the children also took home a specially chosen decoration for their Christmas trees – a gift to each home in the parish.
“This is the seventh year we have organised Bambinelli Sunday in the parish,” said Fr. Carroll “Each year this imaginative, easily organised and well supported celebration goes from strength to strength.
“It’s a wonderful pre-Christmas gathering that lifts the hearts and mindss of all and gives a clear focus to our Advent and Christmas celebrations.”