Christmas traditions Part One

Last time around, we talked a little about how Christmas traditions enhance our faith. Our traditions are unique to each culture, but it is fascinating to read about some of the other traditions from all around the world.

BETHLEHEM:

Historically, the celebration in Bethlehem was full of pomp and circumstances. Flags and banners decorated the whole town, and there would be a parade with Arabian horses leading a dramatic procession. A solemn horseman carried a cross while riding a coal black steed, leading church and local officials, ending with an ancient effigy of Baby Jesus. The procession wound its way to the church, ending at a silver star marking the site thought to be where Jesus was born.

*Each Christian home would have a cross painted over the door and a homemade manger. A star was placed on a pole in the village square.

THE BRITISH ISLES:

The gift giving as we know it now is thought to have originated from the Victorian era, along with caroling, feasting and “good cheer” (drinks). Prior to that, gifts were given in the New Year.

*Hanging holly and ivy came from the pagan tradition of remembering spring throughout the cold winter; kissing under the mistletoe is thought to be from ancient Druid rites.

*Decorating a tree was from Germany. It spread to England, apparently, sometime after 1840 when Prince Albert set up a tree in Windsor Castle for his wife, Queen Victoria and their children.

*Wassail is derived from AngloSaxon phrase waes hael, which means “good health.” It was originally made from mulled ale, curdled cream, roasted apples, nuts, eggs and spices.

AUSTRALIA:

The population in Australia is 70% Catholic, Lutheran or Anglican, so for most people, Christmas is a time for remembering the true meaning of Christmas. It’s summer there, so surfing, shopping, and vacationing are the activities. They use artificial trees, and follow many English traditions. Some have replaced the huge turkey and steamed pudding for backyard barbecues or picnics.

BRAZIL:

Each town in Brazil sets out to create a nativity scene or Presepio. (“bed straw). Introduced in the 17th century, they are now set up in December and displayed in churches, homes, and stores.

*In Northern Brazil, as in Mexico, they put on a folk play Los Pastores, “The Shepherds.” In the Brazilian version there are shepherdesses rather than shepherds and a gypsy who attempts to kidnap the Christ Child.

*Papai Noel (Father Noel) is the gift bringer; he lives in Greenland. When he arrives, he usually wears silk clothing due to the heat. Funny, huh!

*Traditional dinners include turkey, ham, colored rice, and various vegetable and/or fruit dishes.

*(Catholics often attend Midnight Mass, or Missa do Galo (rooster); the rooster announces the coming day and Mass finishes at 1 am.

*Decorations include fresh flowers. Brazil goes all out with the fireworks; and since they don’t have a lot of pine trees around, they display huge christmas “trees” of electric lights. (see picture below).

This post was so long, that part two of Christmas traditions will come on 23 December, where we'll "visit" China. See you then!

Brazilian Christmas “tree” from The North-Pole.com