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Newspaper
Hope Star
Location
Hope, Arkansas, United States of America
Date
Dec 23, 1969
Page
20
Tales recount how customs foretold marriage and good fortune at Christmas. From Swabian sticks and melting lead to water dreams, to northern chants and holly under pillows, to Swiss Edelweiss betrothal, babies seen as healing signs, and fears of future spouses reflected in playful rituals.
Medieval people viewed bells as near living beings and dedicated them before hanging. The dedication resembled a baptism and prayers sought to summon the faithful, foster devotion, ward off storms, and banish evil. A historical note mentions apostles of peace greeting the winter feasts of Christmas.
A fragmentary historical excerpt notes old Pilgrim law on Christmas observance from 1659 and links Christmas signs to agricultural blessing. It mentions bells of varied shapes and ages, with legends tracing bells to Bishop Paulinus of Nola in Campania and the etymology from Canpanula.
A fragment describes barnyard animals showing adoration of the Child by kneeling at midnight on Christmas Eve. The text hints at an American context beginning with a mention of American In- as a lead into a broader tale.
The piece notes that during Christmas time in Norway animals are protected and fed, with farmers lighting candles for shelter animals to guide them home. It recounts Scandinavian tales of Jesus aiding clay birds and bees singing to the Christ Child, reflecting enduring Christmas beliefs across farms and beehives.
A 1964 holiday note urges abandoning busy chores to embrace the true meaning of Christmas. It promises a warmer family closeness and a joyful morning when the season is celebrated by expressing its core message.
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