Christmas: commercial or Christian holiday?

For many people, Christmas is a commercial holiday, during which families gather around a beautifully decorated table and a tree sparkling with lights. It's an opportunity to offer gifts to loved ones and show them love.

But originally, Christmas is a purely Christian holiday. It refers to the birth of Jesus in the city of Bethlehem. The stories alluding to this day recount the events of Christ's life according to the various Gospels.

Historically, neither the year nor the exact day of Jesus Christ's birth is known. Even the Gospels provide no information regarding the birthdate of the Savior of Mankind. However, Jesus is believed to have been born between 7 and 2 BC, in a stable.

To celebrate the birth of Christ, also called the Feast of the Nativity, the Church chose December 25. This date, which is certainly not in reality the date of Jesus' birth, was chosen by convention.

Contrary to what most people think, this is not an anniversary, but a message of peace, love and justice that the Church wishes to convey to humanity.

Christmas among Christians

Depending on the country and sometimes the region, Christmas is celebrated differently.

Christmas among Catholics

The Christmas nativity scene is one of the defining elements of this celebration among Catholics. Indeed, Christ is said to have been born in a manger. He settles among the poorest, despite his omnipotence and divine power. This is a true sign of humility. The first to be informed of his birth are the shepherds, not the powerful.

It was in 1223 that Francis of Assisi created the first Christmas nativity scene in Greccio, Italy. But it appeared within the Catholic Church between the 15th and 16th ^centuries. and the ^16th century.

The Christmas nativity scene depicts the birth of Jesus as described in the Old Testament. It depicts the stable where the Messiah was born, the Magi, and Jesus' parents.

Christmas among Orthodox Christians

Like Catholics, Greek Orthodox churches celebrate Christmas on December 25th. However, in Russian Orthodox churches, this holiday is celebrated on January 7th. It also refers to the birth of Christ and the visit of the Magi. Orthodox Christians do not have nativity scenes, but they depict the birth of Jesus with icons.

Christmas among Protestants

Protestants do not have a Christmas crib, as Catholics do, but they have developed the tradition of the Christmas tree, a beautifully decorated tree that shines brightly to symbolize the paradise of Adam and Eve and the knowledge of good and evil.

Christmas markets

In France, the tradition of Christmas markets originated in Alsace. But during the 1990s, it spread to the rest of the country.

Originally, Christmas markets represented artisanal products dedicated to Christmas. However, with modernization, they have expanded and now offer ordinary products. This tradition generally runs from late November to late December.

The traditional Christmas tree and gifts

Originally, the Christmas tree was a decoration of pagan tradition. But the Christian churches appropriated it during the Middle Ages. It was only towards the end of the 18th ^century century that it became popular within the Protestant church at first and subsequently to the rest of the Christian congregation.

The Christmas tree is often associated with gifts. These are exchanged on the evening of December 24th or on December 25th, with people gathered under the same roof. But on the following days, relatives and other family members may also receive gifts.

For Christians, the Christmas gift refers to the gifts given to the Baby Jesus by the Magi. These gifts were gold, frankincense, and myrrh. However, the tradition of giving gifts on Christmas Day continues beyond the Christian context. It can be seen as a simple gesture of love and generosity. This also contributes significantly to the commercial nature of the Christmas holiday.

Christmas Eve and Masses

For Christians, Christmas Eve is a tradition that has been celebrated every year for centuries. Traditionally, Mass was celebrated on December 24th, beginning at midnight. But today, it is also increasingly held earlier, in the early evening.

For Catholics, the evening of December 24th is taken up with Mass and prayers. But for most people, it's a time to spend with family.

In the past, tradition dictated that people would light a log in the fireplace and gather around the fire for a moment of sharing and communion. But today, people can drink wine, share meals, and tell stories. It's during these times that children learn more about the history of their parents and loved ones.

Santa Claus

Santa Claus is a character of Anglo-Saxon invention. He was born in the 19th ^century. century and it is he who is responsible for bringing toys to children who have been good during the year. He was thought to be old, with a long white beard and wearing a red cloak.

Good to know: you will find all the information, images, videos on Santa's website .

He is helped during his mission by reindeer, who drive his flying sleigh to the four corners of the world.

Traditional Christmas recipes

Just like gifts, the Christmas tree, and decorations, Christmas dinner is a must. It's a hearty and festive meal consisting of turkey, seafood, and foie gras, which ends, as tradition dictates, with a Yule log. This cake, wrapped in cream and sometimes ice cream, recalls the old translation that said a log should be put on the fire to warm the house. Today, we share it by the fireplace while telling each other wonderful stories.