Many assume Christmas is just a day resembling another jolly holiday or a myth of Santa Claus. People now celebrate Christmas all around the world. It’s a time when friends and family join together to celebrate their blessings. People enjoy Christmas because it’s a time for giving and receiving gifts, especially for youngsters! Today, we will bring you on our journey to know the history of Christmas.
The History of Christmas
Christians commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ, whom they believe to be the Son of God, by celebrating Christmas.
The Mass of Christ is where the word “Christmas” originates (or Jesus). Christians recall that Jesus died and later rose from the dead during a Mass ceremony (also known as Communion or Eucharist). The only service that could be held after sunset (and before sunrise the following day) was the “Christ-Mass,” so many attended it after midnight! Christ-Mass is hence abbreviated to Christmas.
Why does Christmas fall on 25 December?
Christmas was celebrated on December 25 for the first time on record in 336, under the rule of Roman Emperor Constantine (he was the first Christian Roman Emperor). But at the time, it was not a recognised Roman state celebration.
However, there are numerous customs and explanations for why it is observed on December 25.
Early Christian traditions claimed that the Annunciation, or the day Mary was informed she would give birth to Jesus, was on March 25. This day is still observed as the Annunciation. The 25th of December comes nine months after the 25th of March.
Early Christians also believed that the world was created on March 25, that Jesus died on that day when he was an adult, and that the two events occurred on the same day of the year. Because it was close to the March/Vernal Equinox, the date was chosen (when the date and night are of equal length in March).
According to the Jewish calendar, Jesus passed away on Nisan 14, which is also the day of the Passover holiday. The Jewish calendar follows the Gregorian calendar’s dates because it is lunar (based on the moon rather than fixed dates). Jesus was conceived on Nisan 10, according to the teachings of Saint Ephrem the Syrian (306–373)! In order to denote these “movable” days on the Jewish calendar, March 25th was made a “fixed” date on the Gregorian calendar.
What activities to do during the jolly month for kids, adults and families?
- Make your kids decorate cookies (Kids)
- Host your kids a Christmas craft party (Kids)
- Write your Christmas wishlist (Kids)
- Book your drive-in movie night (Adults)
- Throw a Christmas party (Adults)
- Take your family ice skating (Family)
- Decorate cookies and gingerbread house (Family)
- Plan a family photoshoot (Family)
- Decorate a Christmas tree (Family)
Christmas movies your kids should watch
- Scrooge: A Christmas Carol
From this movie, your kids will learn to appreciate and treat people with rightful respect. They will also learn that’s good to give to others and you’ll be given much more in return when needed.
2. The Christmas Chronicles: Part 2
From this movie, your kids will learn to be on the good list. This movie will help build character, and attitude and love others genuinely no matter how you are treated as you’ll be rewarded with the love of family.
3. Angela’s Christmas 2
In this movie, your kids will learn that it is good to stay united as a family as it brings joy and prosperity.
Are you on the hunt for a preschool since the new year is coming?
Join us at Be Smarts!
We currently have 2 branches in KL. Schedule an appointment by Whatsapp-ing or calling us to visit our branches! Make a smart choice for your kid and kick start the year with Be Smarts!
Be Smarts wishes you Merry Christmas!
