Just before Mary was about to deliver Jesus, there was a call for all to participate in the current census. Since it was necessary for him to travel to Bethlehem, he and Mary set out.  While they were there, Mary was ready to have the baby. Mary and Joseph looked for a place to stay, however, there was no room for them in the Inn. However, someone offered their stable as a place for them.

When Jesus was born, she took some clothing and wrapped him up. Then she placed him in a manger as the new Holy Family rested.

In the fields not far away, there were shepherds taking care of their sheep. Suddenly a great angel appeared in the sky surrounded by heavenly light. The shepherds were frightened.

“Do not be afraid,” the angel said to them. “For I bring you news of great joy. Today in the city of David, a savior has been born for you. He is the Messiah and Lord. And this will be a sign to you:  you will find an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger!”

Then, many angels joined the angel. They praised God and said, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to those whom his favor rests.”

 Instantly, they disappeared.

“Let’s go to Bethlehem,” one shepherd said to the others. “Let’s go see what God has revealed to us.”

They quickly went to Bethlehem and indeed found Mary and Joseph, with Jesus lying in a manger.

“We were in the fields,” a shepherd said. “That’s when the angel appeared and told us all about this.”

Everyone was amazed by this, and Mary took these events and held them close to her heart.