The Place where Jesus was Born

By Sherri Stewart

With Christmas approaching, let’s look at the church in Bethlehem where the birth of Jesus Christ is said to have occurred. Of course, Luke tells us that Jesus was born in a stable—more likely a cave or under the inn where Mary and Joseph sought shelter for the night. I discovered when I traveled to Israel that churches were built on most of the sites associated with the stories from the Bible, and the Church of the Nativity marks the spot where Jesus was born.

The Church of the Nativity sits in Bethlehem, in the West Bank just six miles south of Jerusalem. The church’s origins trace back to 327–333 AD, when Constantine and his mother, Helena, commissioned its construction. The original structure was a classic Byzantine basilica, complete with three aisles, intricate mosaics, and carefully placed altars that guided worshippers’ movements. The church escaped major damages during the Crusader period (11th–12th centuries). Part of this was due to the church’s distance from Jerusalem, and the relative insignificance of Bethlehem for the region’s strategic defense. The church’s survival during this time is the subject of legends that it was miraculously protected from such events. The Crusaders encircled the complex with a stone wall, parts of which were later incorporated into various monasteries that still stand today. https://www.biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/bas-onsite/church-of-the-nativity/

Under the Ottomans, much of the marble was plundered, possibly to be used in refurbishing Jerusalem’s Dome of the Rock. After that, the church entered a long period of decay. The central nave of the church was used for non-worship purposes, including legal proceedings and even housing Ottoman troops. Eventually, church officials regained control over the church, although over the next several centuries, it continued to fall into disrepair. (1517-1917). 

Beneath the basilica lies the Grotto of the Nativity, marked by a silver star indicating Jesus’ birthplace. Over time, various Christian denominations have added chapels and altars, creating a rich tapestry in a single sacred site. The rock shelf has been covered with marble, but the original rock may be seen around the manger. The dimensions match those of feeding troughs cut into the rock by the Bedouins.

When the original church was built in the 4th century, the Grotto of the Nativity was enlarged to make room for pilgrims and at that time a silver manger was installed. St. Jerome, whose own cave was nearby, objected: “If I could only see that manger in which the Lord lay! Now, as if to honour the Christ, we have removed the poor one and placed there a silver one; however, for me the one which was removed is more precious . . . .” https://www.seetheholyland.net/grotto-of-the-nativity/

Centuries of visitors and exposure have naturally taken a toll on the structure. Structural stress, humidity, and heavy foot traffic require ongoing care. UNESCO and international partners have stepped in to guide restoration, ensuring the church remains stable while honoring its spiritual and artistic heritage. https://nativitylover.com/church-of-the-nativity

Out of respect for this site, modest clothing is recommended—shoulders and knees should be covered in all areas of the church. Photography is generally allowed in public spaces, but certain chapels or services may restrict it. The church can be busy during Christmas, Epiphany, and major Christian festivals, while quieter periods in spring or autumn offer a more intimate experience. 

Sherri Boomershine is a woman of faith who loves all things foreign whether it’s food, culture, or language. A former French teacher and flight attendant, her passion is traveling to the settings of her books, sampling the food, and visiting the sites. She visited a Netherlands concentration camp for A Song for Her Enemies, and Paris art museums for What Hides beyond the Walls. Sherri lives with her husband Mike, her high school sweetheart, whom she married fifty-five years later. As an author and editor, she hopes her books will entertain and challenge readers to live large and connect with their Savior. Join, chat, and share with her on social media. Newsletter Facebook Twitter Instagram Website

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