Bambinelli Sunday

A beloved annual tradition in preparation for Christmas, the Blessing of the Bambinelli was first instituted by St. John Paul II. On the Third Sunday of Advent, the children of Rome are encouraged to bring the Baby Jesus (Bambinelli is “little boys” in Italian) from each of their Nativity sets to St. Peter’s Square. Following the Sunday Angelus address, the Pope blesses the figurines.
Now celebrated in other churches around the world, this Advent tradition is a way for children and families to connect their Nativity scene at home to the celebration of Christmas at their church. This year, Good Shepherd will observe Bambinelli Sunday on the Third Sunday of Advent.

The faithful are invited to bring the Baby Jesus figurines from their home Nativity sets to the Mass for this special blessing. The blessing will be just before the final blessing at all Masses on the Third Sunday of Advent, December 14/15, 2024.