Birth of Jesus Declared to Shepherds in Bethlehem
The Christmas narrative reports that angels announce the Messiah to shepherds in the fields near Bethlehem. The shepherds, frightened yet curious, travel to find Mary, Joseph, and the Christ Child in a manger, then depart, forever marking a pivotal moment in history.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Christ
Bethlehem
Mary and
Joseph
Keeping Christmas as a daily sacred practice
Henry Van Dyke argues that observing Christmas customs can reveal the common life over the self. He urges consideration for children and the elderly, loving others, and banishing ugly thoughts to foster enduring charity and the message of Bethlehem.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Bethlehem
Holly wreaths and mistletoe in Christmas lore
The holly wreath holds a special place in Christmas observance as it is tied to the belief that Christ's crown of thorns was made from holly leaves. Early British druids ascribed great medicinal powers to mistletoe in festive tradition.
White House Christmas Traditions Through the Years
A review of Christmas at the White House highlights how presidents and first ladies hosted families and guests with unique traditions. Figures include James K. Polk, Mamie Eisenhower, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Herbert Hoover, Andrew Jackson, Theodore Roosevelt, and a story of Archie hiding a decorated tree in a closet.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
White House
America
James K. Polk
White Christmas Tops Global Sales Records
Irving Berlin’s White Christmas has over 108.5 million copies sold in the United States and Canada in English. With foreign sales of at least 25 million in 30 languages the worldwide total exceeds 133 million. Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer has sold about 113 million copies globally in multiple languages.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Irving Berlin
United States
Canada
Balkan
India
First Christmas Tree in America Origins
The first Christmas tree in America is uncertain with several claims. Historian Charles Follen, a German professor at Harvard, is said to have trimmed a tree for his son in 1832, with Boston following in 1833. British royal influence spread the custom after Prince Albert popularized the tradition in Windsor Castle. The 1845 best seller Kriss Kringle’s Christmas Tree helped standardize American decorating.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
America
Charles Follen
Harvard
Prince Albert
Queen Victoria
England
Windsor Castle
Kriss Kringle
Bach Christmas Music Spurs Joy With Sacred Chorals
The article celebrates Johann Sebastian Bach during Christmas as his religious works uplift listeners. It highlights the Christmas Oratorio, six cantatas on NT readings, and the Cantata No. 147 aria Jesus Joy of Man’s Desiring. Bach died in 1750.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Bach
United States
Jesus
Rediscovered artist's Zenius shines in holy season
Decades after obscurity, the artist known as Zenius is now recognized for his enduring works. During the holy season his contributions are celebrated, drawing attention from admirers and scholars alike.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Zenius
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