The Catechism of the Catholic Church (paragraphs 525-526) says, Jesus was born in a humble stable, into a poor family. Simple shepherds were the first witnesses to this event. In this poverty heaven's glory was made manifest. ... To become a child in relation to God is the condition for entering the kingdom. For this, we must humble ourselves and become little. Even more: to become "children of God" we must be "born from above" or "born of God." Only when Christ is formed in us will the mystery of Christmas be fulfilled in us. The word originates from the Latin word “nativitas” meaning “birth,” and is used by the Church as a formal title of this day and its celebration.