Collectors

Amid all the seasonal merriment, these quiet reminders of the true meaning of Christmas speak volumes

At the age of 12, I created a book of nativity scenes from recycled Christmas cards, which became the very first nativity-related article I ever possessed. My first “official” nativity set came to me in 1982 as a gift from my sister, who had ordered it from the Eaton’s catalogue. It took a few years, but from these humble beginnings grew a sizeable collection of nativity scenes, which now includes 148 complete sets, as well as many associated items. Just like my first set, most have been given to me as presents. My family members and friends are always on the lookout for something unique, and have found sets and hanging ornaments for me made out of everything from wood, pewter, brass and sea shells to mother of pearl, ceramic and glass…to mention but a few.

Many pieces in my collection are handmade out of the variety of materials mentioned above. Others are individually sculpted out of polymer clay, or are woven, crossstitched and crocheted using different fabrics or wool. A few of the sets also play music or are nicely backlit by a candle or Christmas lights. One set is entirely made out of wax candles, which, of course, I have never lit!

I have only purchased or made a few of the items myself, one being a nativity panel that I quilted by hand. Quite a few came from Ten Thousand Villages, a nonprofit fair trade organization that markets handcrafted products made by disadvantaged artisans in more than 35 countries around the world.

Despite sharing a common theme, each nativity scene, item or complete set is unique in its own right. For example, one nativity set, originating from Banff, Alta., is comprised of bear figurines; another is peopled by snowmen. The smallest nativity item I have is a tiny broach given to me by my Confirmation students many years ago. Complementing the collection are a multitude of themed snow globes, handmade Christmas cards, jigsaw puzzles, books and much more.

I always enjoy having people over to share in my collection. I set everything up in November and leave it on display until the beginning of February. It takes a while to see and appreciate all the pieces— and there always seems to be an item or two that was overlooked at first viewing. It's a wonderful way to get in the Christmas spirit— and to keep that spirit alive well into the new year. n

Here’s a small sampling from Gloria’s extensive collection, including pages from a book of Nativity scenes she created when she was 12 years old, using recycled Christmas cards (top left), a Nativity panel that she handquilted (above), and her very...