Two Differences Between Catholic and Protestant Nativity Sets

Some nativity sets are for Catholic Christians. Others are intended for Protestant Christians.

Did you have any idea?!

You may be like me and be more interested in the overall aesthetic of a nativity set than which particular branch of the Christian tree it represents. However, looking for the two differences can be interesting while you wander the aisles at your favorite store during Christmas time.

The Age of Joseph

This takes just a little explanation. In Catholic tradition, Mary remains a virgin throughout her life, not just until Jesus’ is born. In order for this to be true, we must explain how Jesus has siblings in scripture–an indeterminate number of sisters and four named brothers–in Mark 6 and Matthew 13. Catholics believe Joseph had been married previously and these are Jesus’ older half siblings.

Protestants allow for natural marital relations between Mary and Joseph, just not before Jesus’ birth so that Matthew 1:25 is maintained. Generally, they believe these are Jesus’ younger half siblings.

Everyone pretty much universally agrees that Mary was young, so if Joseph looks young like her, it is a Protestant nativity. If Joseph is older, perhaps with gray hair or dark hair but an older looking face, it is a Catholic nativity.

In this modern age of mass marketing, manufacturers aim for a face on Joseph that could go either way. But next time you’re in the store, look around. See if the store carries Catholic, Protestant, or generic nativities.

There are two differences between Catholic and Protestant nativity sets. Do you know what they are? Share on X

The Color of Mary’s Mantle

In Catholic tradition, Mary is most commonly portrayed in blue.

In the Old Testament, the Israelites both place blue tassels on their clothing (Numbers 15) and cover the Ark of the Covenant with a blue cloth (Numbers 4). Blue was used extensively, along with scarlet and purple, in the fabric portions of the Tabernacle in the wilderness.

Some claim Mary is the new Ark of the Covenant. Others assert that blue is the color of royalty, and as an empress, Queen of Heaven, it is appropriate. Others suggest it is a lingering aspect of indigenous European religions adopted by Christianity as it moved into the area. Though the explanations may vary, blue is traditionally associated with Mary.

If Mary’s mantle is blue, it is a Catholic nativity set. If it is another color, it is Protestant.

In a Word

So the two differences are that a Catholic nativity has a young Mary in blue and an older Joseph while a Protestant nativity has a younger Joseph and a young Mary in a more basic color.

I make no judgment on the interpretations of these passages of scripture; I just offer them for consideration. I have no preference  for Catholic or Protestant in my nativity sets, but I confess to a desire for more ethnic authenticity in the available options.

What about you? Which type of nativity do you have in your home? Can you tell? Let me know what you find out there. Leave a comment or send me an email.