The Nativity scene that was part of Christmas Corner at State Auto in downtown Columbus for decades made its official debut at St. Joseph Cathedral on Friday, Nov. 23 with a Solemn Vespers and a Blessing of the Creche ceremony.

Bishop Earl Fernandes presided over Vespers in the Cathedral and then moved outside with the rest of the congregation for a blessing with holy water of the historic Nativity, which will be on display at the cathedral through the New Year.

The congregation participates in the prayers during Solemn Vespers.  CT photo by Ken Snow

Faith leaders and diocesan staff members attended as well as the Knights of Columbus and the Order of Malta.

Also present was Stephanie Meredith, director of external relations at State Auto who managed the Nativity for 11 years before an agreement was reached earlier this year to move the display.

"I love the Nativity, loved managing it ... but when I met (Catholic Museum of Art & History director) Shawn (Kenney) and his team I knew it would be a real win-win," she said. “It’s still here (in Columbus) and they’ve invited us to continue be a part of it. They really, really wanted it and want to carry it on, taking it to higher heights and deeper depths.”

The Nativity setup began last month on the Cathedral lawn.

Stephanie Meredith (right) and a friend take a selfie in front of the Nativity. Meredith managed the Nativity for 11 years at State Auto.  CT photo by Ken Snow

“It’s so wonderful that Stephanie, from day one when we took a tour of the Nativity, was very emotional and we could see and feel her deep attachment to it," Kenney said. "So we want to make sure that this continues. It means a lot to many people, especially the staff who have been working with it all these years.

“It’s important to note that State Auto made a large financial contribution for an endowment that we set up to maintain and preserve the exhibit. They didn’t just give us the Nativity scene, they’re taking care of it into the future. 

The faithful gather for a blessing with holy water of the historic Nativity, which will be on display at the cathedral through the New Year.  CT photo by Ken Snow

"So we’re making sure that we build that up. We owe a lot to Liberty Mutual and State Auto for this whole transaction.

“It’s amazing because it’s staying on Broad Street. This really couldn’t be a better situation. It’s still right here where we can continue the 87 year tradition of coming Downtown every year to experience something so beautiful and holy.”