A Beautiful Advent Tradition
Bambinelli Sunday,
Blessing the Christ Child
The beautiful Advent Tradition, Bambinelli Sunday, was instituted by Saint Pope John Paul II during his Papacy. The tradition follows that on the Third Sunday of Advent (Gaudete Sunday) children and adults bring their Baby Jesus figures from their homes to St Peters Square where they are blessed by the Pope. Then, following the Sunday Angelus address, the Holy Father blesses the statues of Baby Jesus which the children will take back to homes to be placed under their Christmas trees.
This year we will celebrate 'Bambinelli Sunday' on December 10 & 11. All children and families are invited to bring the Baby Jesus figure from their homes to be blessed.
It is suggested, following the blessing, take your 'Bambinelli' home, wrap it and open it as a family on Christmas morning where the youngest member of the family will place it in the crib. A gift of the presence of Christ in your home this Christmas!