Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

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What Skeptics Say

While some atheists don’t celebrate Christmas, many do. However, skeptics of Christianity often claim that any record of Jesus' birth is simply a historical fact that He existed. The birth and life of Jesus, it's often said, provides no evidence that He was anything more than a man living on the earth. Some don't even believe that Jesus the man ever existed.

Many skeptics or those from other religions claim that Jesus was a holy prophet, much like the revered prophets Abraham, Moses, or Muhammad, but that He wasn’t inherently divine, much less the Son of God. Therefore, to these skeptics, Christmas is not the celebration of the immaculate conception and birth of God in human form, as widely accepted by Christians.

What the Bible Says

The full Biblical account of Christmas, as we celebrate it today, is found in Luke 2:4-19. This Gospel tells the story of the baby Jesus’ birth to Mary and Joseph, an engaged couple from Nazareth. Mary had conceived through a miracle after an angel appeared to her telling her she would give birth to the Son of God. Through a series of events that led Mary and Joseph out of Nazareth, this baby, Jesus, was born in a manger in a stable.

Though the exact date of his birth is unknown, Christians have celebrated this event on December 25 every year. Additional references to the birth of Christ are found in Matthew 2 and Galatians 4:4-5. The reason Christ’s birth is so significant is that Jesus is one of the three persons making up the holy trinity of God: the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. It also marks the beginning of the Christian faith.

Before Jesus’ birth, Christianity didn’t exist. Many prophets of Judaism predicted a messiah coming to earth, as seen in Isaiah 9:6: “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

Christians believe that Jesus’ birth was the coming of that messiah. As John 3:16 states, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” For Christians, the Christmas holiday honors God’s manifestation on earth in the form of Jesus.

Meet New People

As human beings, we’re all born with an innate need to know others and to be known. Having healthy relationships is essential to having a full and satisfying life, but not everyone has the kind of positive, supportive, and meaningful relationships they need. Many people are even uncomfortable with the process of meeting new people and making new friends.

We believe that life is better lived in an authentic community of people who appreciate the connection to others, we’ve created a variety of environments that make it easy for you to meet new people and initiate new relationships. Regardless of where you are on your faith journey, you’re welcome to explore, learn and grow with us.

In the seventeenth century, a famous philosopher and mathematician, Blaise Pascal, encouraged people to make a wager when it came to belief in God. If a person chose to believe in God and God did exist, that person would gain everything (eternal life).

If a person chose to believe in God and God did not exist, that person would lose nothing. On the other hand, if a person chose not to believe in God and he was right, he would lose nothing. But if that person did not believe in God and he was wrong- he would lose everything (lose eternal life).

What is the Real Meaning Behind Christmas?

Christmas is celebrated to remember the birth of Jesus Christ, who Christians believe is the Son of God. The name 'Christmas' comes from the Mass of Christ (or Jesus). A Mass service (which is sometimesCommunion or Eucharist) is where Christians remember that Jesus died for us and then came back to life.

What is the Main Message for Christmas?

The good news of Christmas is that even when the world or our circumstances change – the message of Christmas is timeless. Because Christmas is about the birth of God's Son – Jesus. It is about how he came to give us love, hope and joy. That message doesn't change from year to year.

What was the Main Idea of Christmas?

For Christians, believing that God came into the world in the form of man to atone for the sins of humanity, rather than knowing Jesus's exact birth date, is considered to be the primary purpose in celebrating Christmas.

What is Christmas About and Why?

Christmas is celebrated to observe the birth of Jesus Christ, whom Christians believe is the Son of God.

Does Christmas Have a Dark History?

Some popular holiday traditions have dark origins, or once looked much different than they are now. In the 1700s, carolers would sometimes break down doors and demand food and drink from residents. And although "The Nutcracker" is a beautiful ballet, it's actually based on a pretty creepy story.

When was Jesus Actually Born?

The date of birth of Jesus is not stated in the gospels or in any historical sources, but most biblical scholars generally accept a date of birth between 6 BC and 4 BC, the year in which King Herod died.

10 Reasons Why We Celebrate Christmas

• Commemorating the Birth of Jesus Christ: ...

• Spreading the Message of Love and Compassion: ...

• Creating Traditions and Building Memories: ...

• Fostering Togetherness and Family Bonding: ...

• Bringing Light to the Winter Darkness: ...

• Honoring Cultural Diversity: ...

• Promoting Peace and Unity:

Why was December 25th Chosen as the Birthday of Jesus?

“The real reason for the selection of Dec. 25 seems to have been that it is exactly nine months after March 25, the traditional date of Jesus' crucifixion. ... As Christians developed the theological idea that Jesus was conceived and crucified on the same date, they set the date of his birth nine months later.”

What are 4 facts Interesting Facts About Christmas?

• 3 billion Christmas cards are sent in the U.S. each year.

• Christmas trees have been sold in the U.S. since 1850.

• It takes about 15 years to grow the average Christmas tree.

• Alabama was the first state to officially recognize Christmas in 1836.

How Do You Explain Christmas to a Child?

The best solution for them to grasp the idea that Christmas is a day when we celebrate the birth of Jesus is to tell them that Christmas is in fact Jesus' birthday. Encourage them to do just as they would on any other person's birthday – think about them, celebrate their life and be grateful for them.

Where in the Bible Does it Speak About Christmas Trees?

The Bible has no reference to Christmas trees. But it does refer to Idolatry. Is the Christmas tree used in pagan worship? Perhaps at one time, but the Lord judges us for what we see in the tree, not what the origins were.

What was Christmas Like for Slaves?

American slaves experienced the Christmas holidays in many different ways. Joy, hope, and celebration were naturally a part of the season for many. For other slaves, these holidays conjured up visions of freedom and even the opportunity to bring about that freedom.

What Does Black Christmas Mean?

Quick definitions from Wiktionary (black Christmas) ▸ noun: A Christmas Day or Christmas Eve on which there is not any snowfall or ground covering of snow.

What Zodiac was Jesus?

Jesus was likely born in mid-February of 5 B.C. So, he was likely an Aquarius. Perhaps a Pisces if born closer to the end of the month than the middle

How Old was Jesus When He Died?

Hippolytus, states that Jesus was born on Wednesday, December 25th, in the 42nd year of Augustus, 5500 years after Adam; and he died in his 33rd year of life on Friday, March 25th, in the 18th year of Tiberius, on the consulship of Rufus and Rubellius [AD 29].

What is Jesus Real Name?

Jesus' name in Hebrew was “Yeshua” which translates to English as Joshua. So how did we get the name “Jesus”? And is “Christ” a last name? Watch the episode to find out!

What Food is Eaten on Christmas?

Traditional Christmas dinner features turkey with stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, and vegetables. Other types of poultry, roast beef, or ham are also used. Pumpkin or apple pie, raisin pudding, Christmas pudding, or fruitcake are staples for dessert.

What Happened on the 25 December?

On December 25, Christians around the world celebrate the birth of Christ. The origins of the holiday are uncertain; by the year 336, however, the Christian church in Rome observed the Feast of the Nativity on December 25.

Who Decided Christmas Should Be on December 25?

Under Emperor Constantine, the Church in Rome began celebrating Christmas on Dec. 25 in 336. Some say the date was chosen to outshine the Sol Invictus and pagan celebrations

Who Decided Jesus was Born on December 25?

The Roman Christian historian Sextus Julius Africanus dated Jesus' conception to March 25 (the same date upon which he held that the world was created), which, after nine months in his mother's womb, would result in a December 25 birth.

Where in the Bible it Says Jesus was Born on December 25?

Dec. 25 is not the date mentioned in the Bible as the day of Jesus's birth; the Bible is actually silent on the day or the time of year when Mary was said to have given birth to him in Bethlehem. The earliest Christians did not celebrate his birth.

Why is Tinsel Illegal?

In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) concluded in August 1971 that lead tinsel caused an unnecessary risk to children and convinced manufacturers and importers to voluntarily stop producing or importing lead tinsel after January 1, 1972.

What was Christmas Originally Called?

First called the Feast of the Nativity, the custom spread to Egypt by 432 and to England by the end of the sixth century.

Why is Christmas Invented?

These celebrations commemorated Christ's birth and the name Christmas (Christ's Mass) is first recorded in England in 1038. Medieval celebrations also combined the servants-as-masters antics and gift-giving of Roman Saturnalia with customs belonging to the midwinter feast of Yule.

What Age Do Kids Understand Christmas?

In terms of Santa's believe-o-meter, three- and four-year-olds generate the most juice, because that's when they first start to understand the magic of Santa. By age eight, kids begin to acknowledge the unlikeliness of one man travelling the world in a single night.

Why is Christmas so Magical to a Child?

For some kids, the joy of Christmas comes from the myth of Santa Claus and mysterious appearing presents. For others, it is the sights, sounds, and smells of the festive season.

How Do You Explain Santa to a 6 Year Old?

Explain that Santa is a symbol

Say something like this, “The Santa that you see in books, movies, and in stores is a person in a costume. People dress up in Santa costumes to remind us... ...of someone who lived a long, long time ago called St. Nicholas who secretly gave money to people who needed it.”

What Does a Christmas Tree Have To Do With Jesus?

In Christianity, Christmas tree is symbolic of birth and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The tree's branches and shrubs are viewed as an emblem of immortality and are said to symbolize the crown of thorns worn by Christ on the cross.

Meaning & Significance of Christmas Tree

Christmas is one of the most joyous and awaited festivals around the world. The day is celebrated with sheer happiness and utmost love by people regardless of their religion. It is the day of giving and receiving love, laughter, gifts, and creating cherished memories with near and dear ones. There are many things that are essential in decorating spaces for Christmas, and one such element is the Christmas Tree. What did you ever ask question, what does the Christmas tree symbolize?

The Christmas tree holds different meanings for different people and across cultures. Much more than for beauty and refreshing piney scent, the tree is deeply rooted in Ancient history, tradition, and culture.

Spiritual Meaning of a Christmas Tree

In Christianity, Christmas tree is symbolic of birth and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The tree’s branches and shrubs are viewed as an emblem of immortality and are said to symbolize the crown of thorns worn by Christ on the cross. Also, every decoration used to adorn the Christmas tree is believed to have a special significance. And spiritually, our qualities are also said to be ornaments. Though people choose the ornaments for decorating as per their choice, the stated Christmas tree spiritual meaning is followed by all Christians. Decorating the tree gives the whole family a cherishable time and every year, all come together to adorn the tree with various ornaments and make wishes.

Commonly, people use a shining star as Christmas tree topper to represent the star that guided the wise men to Jesus Child in Bethlehem. Angel is also used because it was the angel who announced Christ’s birth.

What Do Christmas Tree Toppers Stand For?

• The bells represent the joy and happiness of this day.

• The candy cane represents God’s shepherd.

• The wreath symbolizes true love.

Christmas Tree Meaning and Symbolism in History, Myth, and Lore

The ancient Greeks and Romans, Germans, Japanese, Chinese and other cultures have their own meanings and significance attached to the Xmas tree.

1. Greeks: The pine was sacred to Attis, the Greek God for flora. In Greek tradition, pine was furnished with silver adornments and offerings placed under the tree were sacrifices to the deities.

2. Romans: Evergreen trees symbolized solar symbolism for Romans who celebrated Saturnalia festival to honor Saturn. The trees represented testimony of light to them.

3. Teutonic (Celtic): Firs and pines adorned with gold were tribute to the deities of life for a good harvest.

4. Japanese and Chinese: Pine and cypress trees symbolize immortality and longevity due to the force of life felt at holy structures built with their wood.

5. Germans: Credited with starting the Christmas tree tradition of decorating interiors, Martin Luther likely first added lit candles to the tree.

The meaning of the Christmas tree has symbolic roots across cultures and history representing hope, faith, and celebration.

What Is Christmas and When Did it Start?

Christmas, the annual Christian festival celebrating Jesus' birth, dates back to at least the 4th century. Under the Church's influence, European pagan winter solstice festivals were transformed to honor the nativity on December 25. Interesting that this date intersects with two Roman solar festivals, suggesting a deliberate counter to pagan celebrations.

Despite lingering unease over the holiday's pre-Christian associations, Christianity holds that its message transcends cultures with transformative power. Jesus' birth represents the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the start of Christianity. While the exact date is uncertain, Christmas traditions continue to celebrate hope and salvation through Christ on December 25.

When is Christmas?

Christmas falls on December 25 each year, though weekdays rotate annually:

2023 - Monday, December 25

2024 - Wednesday, December 25

2025 - Thursday, December 25

2026 - Friday, December 25

2027 – Saturday, December 25

Why December 25th?

Two main theories explain the Christmas date selection:

1. Ancient celebrations already occurred around late-December, including Jewish, pagan, and other cultures' winter solstice festivities involving things now associated with Christmas. Christians possibly promoted December 25 to counter paganism and facilitate conversion.

2. December 25 is nine months after the traditionally calculated anniversary of Jesus' March 25 conception. Christians likely wanted his birth to coincide with conception beliefs.

So while the exact date is uncertain, the relative timing draws symbolic connections between Jesus' birth and death. The winter solstice theme of rebirth and light overcoming darkness resonates as well.

How Did Christmas Begin?

The Christmas origin story comes from Christianity's nativity narrative. Jesus' virgin birth is recorded in the New Testament books of Matthew and Luke. An angel tells Mary she will conceive God's son. Her betrothed husband Joseph also receives angelic confirmation in a dream.

Jesus is born in Bethlehem because of an enrollment. Angels proclaim his birth to shepherds who visit the newborn child. Later the three wise men follow a star to bring gifts recognizing Jesus' importance.

The biblical meaning marking Jesus' birth, life, death, and resurrection establishes the basis of Christian belief. Christmas celebrations commemorate this within ecclesiastical calendars and through evolving cultural traditions across the centuries.

While specific details surrounding the nativity remain debated by historians, spiritual meaning persists for believers. The popular holiday retains symbolic and religious significance, despite secular diversification.

The Origin of Christmas Eve

For centuries Christmas was celebrated as a season starting December 24th, Christmas Eve, according to early Jewish understandings of days transitioning at sunset rather than midnight. Perhaps contemporary Christmas Eve traditions concerning family activities, gift exchanges, worship services, and charitable giving preserve cultural echoes reaching back to early Christian times. These customs bridge the transition from Advent waiting to full Christmas celebration.

Why is it Called Christmas?

"Christmas" derives etymologically from Old English words meaning "Christ's mass." The term's first known use dates around 1038 AD, referring to a church service or Communion ceremony honoring Jesus' birth. By the fourth century,

Western Christian culture connected December 25 Nativity remembrances across the Roman empire. The precise date remains unknown, but Christmas marks Jesus Christ's entrance into flesh appearing among mankind. Over subsequent eras, various Christmas phrase variations emerged connected to commemorating Christ's nativity.

The Christian Meaning Behind Christmas Traditions

Many Christmas customs actually trace back to pre-Christian winter solstice celebrations reinvented to honor Jesus.

Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

TheRachele