Within the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem is the Manger Room, a place closely associated with the Christian tradition of Christ's birth.
The history of Nativity Stones is connected to the renovation of this sacred space in 1963, when stone associated with the work was obtained and later became the foundation of the collection.
This remarkable connection between place, history, and faith is at the heart of the Nativity Stones story.
THE 1963 RENOVATION
THE ORIGINS OF NATIVITY STONES
The story of Nativity Stones begins in Bethlehem, at the Church of the Nativity—a place cherished by Christians for centuries.
The collection's history is connected to stone obtained through renovation work at St. Jerome's Cave, adjoining the Grotto of the Nativity. In 1964, Stanley Slotkin helped bring this stone to the United States, beginning a remarkable journey that would eventually become the Nativity Stones Collection.
Today, these stones are carried and shared as meaningful reminders of Christian faith, hope, and love. Each piece represents a tangible connection to Bethlehem and a story that continues through the generations.
A LEGACY OF FAITH & HISTORY
PRESERVING THE CONNECTION
The story of Nativity Stones continues through Stanley Slotkin, a philanthropist and amateur archaeologist whose visit to Bethlehem in 1963 began an extraordinary journey.
According to the collection's historical account, Slotkin arranged for stone removed during the Manger Room renovation to be brought to the United States in 1964. He believed these stones could offer Christians a meaningful connection to the birthplace of Jesus.
The stones were initially shared with charitable organizations and individuals, including people seeking comfort during illness. At Slotkin's request, his family later continued this legacy through the Nativity Stones Collection.
Today, the collection carries forward that history, preserving a connection between Bethlehem, Christian faith, and the generations who have treasured these stones.
