Nativity scene returns to Daley Plaza

Members of the God Squad‚ a team of volunteers from Chicago-area parishes, assembled the Nativity display at Chicago's Daley Plaza on Nov. 25, 2023. The annual tradition, now in its 39th year, is the only traditional display of the Nativity scene in downtown Chicago’s public square. An opening ceremony featured inspirational speakers, Christmas music and a blessing of the scene. Hosted by the Chicago Nativity Scene Committee, the display will be up through Dec. 30. The Committee is seeking donations to repair and refurbish the statues and manger through its “Support the Nativity” campaign. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Volunteers position the figures on Nov. 25, 2023. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Joseph Lucido kisses the camel after getting the statue to its place in the scene. St. Michael the Archangel Knights of Columbus Police Council #12173 donated $3,500 to restore the camel statue. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Jimmy Tracy attaches a lamb figure to plywood so it stays secure for this season of the display. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Frank Borkowski and Bob Glover install the fence that surrounds the scene. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Jimmy Tracy, Dave LoHenry Jr. and John Chesna exchange tools while securing the figures to the scene. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
John Cossentino and his daughter Macie hold the sign as Vincent Aluise secures it to the ground. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Annelise Dominguez spreads straw throughout the scene, which is a task left for children every year. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Ivan Claveria-McKinney spreads straw throughout the scene. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Father Stephen Lesniewski interviews Liam Nelson before blessing the scene. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Father Lesniewski prays with children during a blessing of the Nativity scene. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
People participate in Nativity scene kickoff at Daley Plaza. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Father Lesniewski blesses the Nativity with children who were present. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic
Hiram Crawford Jr., whose father, Rev. Hiram Crawford, appeared in court with Bill Grutzmacher, and provided incredible moral support during the proceedings of the landmark case to obtain the right to put the scene at Daley Plaza, greets people who stopped by for the event. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
David and Tom Cetera from St. George Parish in Tinley Park lead Christmas carols with Sue Mitchell and Bruce Swiecicki (not seen), also from the parish. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic
Volunteers pose for a photo in front of the scene. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
St. Michael the Archangel Knights of Columbus Police Council #12173 donated $3,500 to restore the camel statue. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
The completed scene in Daley Plaza will stay up until Dec. 30. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)

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