The Living Nativity

Preparing for Christmas with Saint Francis

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Francis of Assisi, the well-known thirteenth-century saint, is credited with creating the first nativity scene. The Living Nativity introduces readers to Saint Francis and his joyous reenactment of the birth of Jesus, complete with a manger and animals. Here we will explore how nativity sets, Advent wreaths, candles, carols, Christmas cards, and other traditions help prepare our hearts for the God "who bends low to enter our world and our lives." Prayer poems for each day of the season lead readers to deepen their spiritual journey, and the content provides a guided pattern for individuals and small groups to share reflections and experience activities that open their hearts to the Christ child.

Our eCourse includes:

  • All essential content from the book, The Living Nativity, which offers a guide from Advent through Epiphany.
  • Weekly video introductions with author Larry Peacock.
  • Weekly audio recordings of prayers.
  • Images that enhance daily practice.
  • Prompts for personal reflection.
  • A secure place for group conversation.

To learn more about other resources related to The Living Nativity, visit mylivingnativity.org.

Private eCourse classrooms with group rates are available upon request. If you are interested, email us at [email protected].


To purchase a print version of The Living Nativity, visit The Upper Room online store.

Interested in online learning options based on your favorite Upper Room books? Look for this graphic and click it to learn more as you explore The Upper Room online store.



Your Instructor


Larry Peacock
Larry Peacock

Larry Peacock is director of the Franciscan Spiritual Center in Milwaukie, Oregon. He served as executive director of Rolling Ridge Retreat and Conference Center in North Andover, Massachusetts, for 11 years. A retired United Methodist pastor, Peacock is a trained spiritual director, an author, and a retreat leader.


Course Content


  Week 1 - Day 1 - Desire and Fervor
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  Week 1 - Day 2 - Preparation
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  Week 1 - Day 3 - Celebration
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  Week 1 - Day 4 - Preaching the Word
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  Week 1 - Day 5 - Miracles
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  Weekend 1
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  Week 2 - Day 1 - Candles and Light
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  Week 2 - Day 2 - Music and Longing
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  Week 2 - Day 3 - Music and Anticipation
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  Week 2 - Day 4- Trees
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  Week 2 - Day 5 - Creche Sets
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  Weekend 2
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  Week 3 - Day 1 - Los Posadas
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  Week 3 - Day 2 - Calendars, Chains, and Cards
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  Week 3 - Day 3 - Labyrinths and Spirals
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  Week 3 - Day 4 - Peace Letters
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  Week 3 - Day 5 - Blue Christmas
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  Weekend 3
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  Christmas Eve - Special Night, Silent Night
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  Christmas Day - Welcome Baby Jesus
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  Week 4 - Day After Christmas - Boxing Day
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  Week 4 - A Strange Way to Save the World
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  Week 4 - Praising God for the Gift of Jesus
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  Weekend 4
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  First Sunday After Christmas - Week 5
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  Week 5 - New Year's Eve
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  Week 5 - New Year
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  Week 5 - Resolutions
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  Week 5 - Let Go, Hold On
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  Week 5 - Encourgement
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  Week 5 - The 12 Days of Christmas
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  Weekend 5
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  Epiphany - January 6th
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  Closing
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Frequently Asked Questions


When does the eCourse start and finish?
The eCourse is intended to start with Advent and continue through Epiphany. But it will remain open indefinitely. It’s self-paced, so you can decide when to start and when to finish.
How long do I have access to the eCourse?
How does lifetime access sound? After enrolling, you have unlimited access to this eCourse for as long as you like—across any and all devices you own. We’ll give you plenty of notice should we need to close the eCourse.
What if I am unhappy with the eCourse?
We would never want you to be unhappy! If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, contact us within the first 30 days and we will give you a full refund.
Who sponsors these eCourses?
This eCourse is brought to you by The Upper Room.

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