Here's how the creche, a beloved Christmas tradition, came from humble beginnings

Brother Francesco loved God and Christmas with a passion he shared with everyone, especially the poor and sick. He even spread his Christmas cheer to the birds and beasts of the field.

Laurel Guillen is the author of the award-winning book, "A Bellwether Christmas: A Novel inspired by True Events."

Enter Brother Francesco, a slightly built but larger-than-life Italian with a flair for the dramatic. He and his followers – known as the Poor Brothers – were peace-loving itinerant preachers who gave away all their worldly possessions and lived in poverty. They begged or worked for their daily bread and sang as they traveled from place to place.

In addition to his deep commitment to charity, Brother Francesco loved God and Christmas with a passion he shared with everyone, especially the poor and sick. He even spread his Christmas cheer to the lowliest birds and beasts of the field.