Belen in Belen

MIAMI | The Christmas spirit came early to Belen Jesuit as priests at the school blessed a large nativity scene, located inside the heart of the campus, Nov. 13. As the Jesuit priests sprinkled water on the nativity, the sixth grade choir sang Christmas carols.

"We are beginning the Advent season a bit earlier this year because we want our students, faculty and members of the Belen community to have the opportunity to enjoy this beautiful nativity scene," said Jesuit Father Pedro Suarez, the school's president.

"My intention is that everyone that passes by it will be enticed to stop and really look at it," said Jesuit Father Jorge Rojas, middle school assistant principal. "It is important for our students, faculty and parents to have this depiction of the first family as a representation of the real importance of why we celebrate Christmas."

Father Rojas led the construction of the nativity scene, which took approximately two weeks to complete. It is located surrounding the staircase of the school's first floor.