While the humble shepherds were grazing their flocks of sheep at that moment, the angels came and announced the birth of baby Jesus in Bethlehem, the event which changed the course of history. Heaven and earth converged with the chorus of “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” (Luke 2:14).

History & Archaeology: The Catholic Shepherds’ Field site is located a few miles east of Bethlehem, in the small town of Beit Sahour - known for its vast fields that fit perfectly with the biblical memories of the Old Testament. Around 4000 years ago, Jacob settled here, weeping over the death of his wife, Rachel, and constructed there the tower of the Flock (Genesis 35: 21). However, that memory was replaced by the story of love between Ruth and Boaz (see Ruth 1-4). Ruth would become the great grandmother of King David. From David, Jesus Christ would come. Furthermore, the memory of the happiest moment is preserved in this place, when the Angels announced the good news to the shepherds (Luke 2).

The Church of the Angels: represents a building of fantastic architecture by the great architect Antonio Barluzzi. According to Luke, it profoundly reflects the birth story’s theological meaning, as related in the Gospel. Barluzzi built the Church in the shape of a tent, reflecting the lifestyle of the shepherds. He created the atmosphere of the announcement. The architecture was well crafted to reflect the events of the Holy Night - with the light breaking through the window to represent the light of the angels when they appeared to the shepherds, bringing the good tidings. Moreover, the architect added 12 angels around the dome from the interior, where six angels look down towards earth while six angels look up towards heaven. The verse from Luke 2:14 translates in Latin as “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

The Trilogy of the Shepherds: Three paintings are presented by the Italian artist Umberto Noni: The Journey of the Shepherds - in three stages: Receiving the Announcement; The Adoration of the Baby by the Shepherds; and Their Return, Filled with Joy.

The Archaeological Remains:

• Shepherds inhabited the site of the Catholic Shepherds Field from the time of Jesus. Archaeologists found oil presses, grottoes, and burial niches from the first century A.D.
• Monks inhabited the site during the Byzantine period, from the fourth century until the sixth century A.D. The material remains tell of the daily life of the monks living in the coenobitic Monastery Bakery, silos, presses, and churches were part of the puzzle found by archaeologists 60 years ago. Most probably, settlement stopped by 614 AD due to the Persian invasion.
• Various areas, prepared with Altar and space, are available for groups to use for Masses.