THE TRUE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS
The true meaning of Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ and the love, hope, and redemption His life represents.
It is a reminder to live with humility, generosity, and compassion by serving and caring for others.
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CHRISTMAS HISTORY
Hello! What does Christmas look like around the world?
In the United States, Christmas is celebrated on December 25 and is both a religious and cultural holiday. For Christians, it commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, while for many others it has become a time for family gatherings, gift-giving, festive decorations, and special meals. Etc. – UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Europeans focus on the religious aspect, Christmas markets, elaborate decorations, and traditional foods. Common traditions include decorating Christmas trees, exchanging gifts, attending church services, and celebrating with family and friends, with some countries also observing special local customs like Saint Nicholas Day or festive holiday parades.- EUROPE
In Asia, Christmas is celebrated differently depending on culture and religion. In Christian-majority countries like the Philippines, it is a major religious and family holiday, while in countries where Christians are a minority, such as Japan or China, it is more of a cultural and commercial celebration with decorations, gifts, and festive events.- ASIA
Traditions often blend local customs with global Christmas practices—such as colorful decorations, handmade ornaments, and gift exchanges—while in some regions, celebrations include outdoor activities, parades, and traditional music and dance rather than snow-based customs seen in colder countries. – AFRICA
In Russia, Christmas is celebrated primarily on January 7 according to the Eastern Orthodox Church calendar, which follows the Julian calendar rather than the Gregorian one. It is a religious holiday commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, singing carols, and participate in nativity plays. – RUSSIA
In many countries, people attend midnight Mass on Christmas Eve, share festive family meals, and exchange gifts. Decorations, nativity scenes, music, and public celebrations are common, and some countries, like Brazil and Colombia, include parades, fireworks, and vibrant street festivals as part of the holiday season. – SOUTH AMERICA
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Santa and His Origin
Santa Claus originated from Saint Nicholas, a generous 4th-century Christian bishop. Over time, his story evolved into the modern Santa, who represents kindness and the joy of giving at Christmas.
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The Nativity and its
true meaning to Christmas
The Nativity tells of the birth of Jesus Christ and teaches humility, faith, hope, and peace. It reminds believers that Christmas is centered on the Savior and that true joy comes from God’s love, sacrifice, and following Christ’s example.
History of Christmas
Christmas blends Christian belief with older cultural traditions. December 25 was chosen in the 4th century to celebrate Christ’s birth, incorporating customs like lights, evergreen trees, and gift-giving, and has become a holiday centered on faith, family, generosity, and joy.
MEANINGS OF CHRISTMAS: **SLIDE** Hover background picture
CHRISTMAS ART WORK: Horizontal Motion
CHRISTMAS IN THE WORLD: Fading In and Out
Christmas quotes from the authoirites of the LDS church: Scaling Up and Down
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Second Counselor in the First Presidency
“I pray that during this season and always, we will see the purity of the story of the Savior’s birth and feel sincere gratitude for His life, teachings, and saving sacrifice for us.”
President Thomas S. Monson
16th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
“Christmas is the season of joy, of gift-giving, and of families united.”
President Russell M. Nelson
17th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
“The joy of Christmas is centered in Jesus Christ. He is the source of our peace, hope, and healing.”
President Gordon B. Hinckley
15th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
“Without Christ, there would be no Christmas. The entire celebration centers on Him.”