After the devastating fire that totally destroyed one of the collections we had planned to use at the Portland Convention next year, Sue Parker from Nevada has offered to bring 50 sets for our Lincoln City display.
Sue writes: The first is from Peru and was purchased by my husband from a street vendor in Peru a few years ago. It was not wrapped and my husband did little to protect it flying back to the US. My husband and the nativity, broken into many pieces, arrived home late on Christmas Eve night. Fortunately, glue and some patience worked wonders.
Here's another unique set called "Starry Night" depicting the often used flower symbols of central and South America.
I once asked a indigenous woman to help me understand the flowers of the Quechua speaking population who live in Peru, Bolivia and Ecuador. She said, the more honored (often aged women) have larger flowers on their blouses and skirts. Also their gold necklaces are symbolic of status within the church leadership. Here we see Mary's golden crown signifying her holy status, pointing to those who follow her lead in serving God.
Sue writes: This set was made from clay by New Mexico artist Jil Gurule. I met and talked with her several times. She was a lovely person and sadly died just a few weeks ago.. She did some very large nativities that were amazing. One of her nativities is featured in James Govan’s book.
This beautiful framed embroidery also shows the floral blessings oft used in Central and South America. All of the women there have varying skills of embroidery. The ones that are in high demand either operate a shop in the small towns (Puebla's) or travel to markets to sell their work. Otavolo Market in Ecuador is the largest outdoor market in South America. It spans the full size of a city plaza with vendors showing their work from the pavement to 10-15 feet in the air. Many of the woman carry the heavy loads on their backs and pack in and out every day.
Perhaps these are the Rose of Sharon, which is often symbolic of the "Perfect Bride" - also in reference to Mary.
Sue writes: This set was hand stitched in Ecuador and as the result of a successful bid at a Friends of the creche convention, I became the owner and framed the scene.
Thanks Sue. You're additions to our Convention in 2021 will be much appreciated. Sue Parker serves on the FOTC Board.
Now please - EVERYONE - stay safe.
Neil Allen - Webmaster FOTC