Over the past several years, I have been on the hunt for an Orthodox Nativity set for my family. One of my biggest hold ups when searching for sets is majority of the sets on the market have the common “barn” manger scene, which isn’t entirely accurate. I’ve been on the search for the traditional “Cave” scene. This year, we found it! We added this BRAND NEW Wooden Icon Nativity Set by Orthodox Design Company to our collection and when I opened the packaged, I squealed and did a happy dance! It’s a dream to have this heirloom Nativity set that is not only beautiful, but durable and interactive for my children!

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This set is sturdy, vibrant, child-proof, and the watercolor-style iconography is aesthetically pleasing. I’m very thankful to Orthodox Design Co for creating this beautiful Nativity Set. It really is a dream come true and I can’t wait to display it this Nativity season.

Wooden Nativity Scene by Orthodox Design Co

But why the cave?

The Early Church Fathers teach us that our Lord was born in a cave: Justin Martyr (150 AD), Jerome (325 AD) all reference the cave. In 335 AD, Emperor Constantine built a church over the birth place of our Lord, known as the “Church of the Nativity.” The people of Bethlehem were known to keep their flocks in an adjoining cave to their homes. There is archaeological evidence for animals being housed in caves.

Around 248 AD, Greek philosopher Origen of Alexandria wrote the following about the site:

In Bethlehem the cave is pointed out where He was born, and the manger in the cave where He was wrapped in swaddling clothes. And the rumor is in those places, and among foreigners of the Faith, that indeed Jesus was born in this cave who is worshiped and reverenced by the Christians.

If you’d like to see my video review of this Wooden Nativity Set, watch this:

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Be sure to check out Orthodox Design Co for this wooden Nativity Set, available through their website directly Orthodox Design Co and Draw Near Designs.