St. Catherine of Siena to host silent auction of nativities from around the world

St. Catherine of Siena Church in West Dundee has on display more than 120 exquisite and diverse Nativity sets gathered from around the world.

The Nativities were generously donated to the parish by longtime parishioner Muriel Fenzel. They are on display for silent auction bidding through Sunday, Dec. 8. Bid winners will be chosen and contacted after the 11:30 a.m. Mass on Dec. 8.

Proceeds from the auction will be given to the Knights of Columbus and the St. Vincent de Paul Society at the parish to assist them in their local charitable efforts of helping others. Community members are invited to view and bid on their favorite Nativity set.

Muriel and her late husband, John Fenzel, spent a lifetime collecting the Nativity scenes from their travels around the world. They each represent the specific cultures and are created from wood, straw, ceramic, stained or blown glass, and many other materials. Many of the Nativity sets were also purchased online by Muriel to add to her collection.

The Rev. John McNamara, pastor of St. Catherine of Siena Church, was very appreciative of Fenzel’s generosity and sees the silent auction as an opportunity for everyone to remember what Christmas is all about.

“I hope that those who view and purchase these beautiful Nativity sets will be able to reflect deeply on the Nativity,” he said. “The cultural interpretations of all of them are truly very unique.”

Fenzel added, “It is my hope that the families who see these Nativity scenes will find a special place in their home for one that represents a special country or scene for them.”

St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church is located at 845 W. Main St. in West Dundee. For more information, call the St. Catherine of Siena parish office at (847) 426-2217.