Olive Wood Nativity

This is a favorite, in part because it is made of olive wood and carved by descendants of shepherds who lived in the area of the birth of Christ. Here's a little about the wood, the artisans and the fair trade option.

The olive tree is native to eastern Mediterranean regions where it has been cultivated for thousands of years. A slow growing tree, it only produces olives after 7 years. After approximately 200 years, the trunk dries up and new shoots begin to sprout, transforming into a new olive tree. Trees are used as a wood source when they no longer produce olives.

About the Artisan:
"Working with olive wood is part of my culture, my heritage," says George al-
Atrash, who founded his family workshop in 1967. He lives near Jerusalem, where he used to sell items to tourist shops. But that is now impossible as he cannot obtain the Israeli-granted pass that would enable him to travel through the checkpoints. George has carved olive wood his whole life, using skills passed on from previous generations. Today, the GE Workshop employs seven artisans who carve olive wood nativities and other items.

Ten Thousand Villages has purchased handicrafts from Palestinian artisans in the West Bank since 1952. Previously, these groups could at least sell to tourists. With increased conflict in the area, however, tourism has plummeted, leaving artisans even more dependent on international markets. Mennonite Central Committee, the parent organization of Ten Thousand Villages, continues to work with both Palestinian and Israeli groups in an effort to build peace, justice and reconciliation.