Christmas and Christmastide

Christmas is observed on December 25 to commemorate the birth of Jesus  The actual birthday of Jesus is not known, but the events of his birth are recorded in two of the gospels. Christmas marks the beginning of the larger season of Christmastide, which lasts twelve days.

Whether or not the birth date of Jesus is on December 25 is not as important as celebrating the coming of God into the world in human form to atone for the sins of humanity.  We celebrate the birth of Jesus to the Virgin Mary as a fulfillment of the Old Testament's Messianic prophecy.  The gospel of Matthew and Luke contain two accounts which describe two versions of the events surrounding Jesus' birth.  

Jesus was born to Mary, assisted by her husband Joseph, in the city of Bethlehem.  The birth took place in a stable and laid him in a manger.  Luke 2:7 states, "She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn." Shepherds from the fields surrounding Bethlehem were told of the birth by an angel, and were the first to see the child.  

Our primary celebration of Christmas occurs on Christmas Eve when we hold our traditional Lessons and Carols Candlelight Communion Service.  During this service of worship the Scriptural prophecies and gospel accounts are read, appropriate carols are sung and the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper is celebrated.  This meaningful service traditionally ends when the Light of Christ is passed throughout the congregation.