Story
Christmas is one of the most popular festivals of Christianity which celebrates the birth anniversary of Jesus Christ (25th December), a spiritual leader whose teachings formed the basis of Christianity. The festival is associated with many legends & stories. The legend associated with the festival tells that a huge shining star appeared in the sky on the day when Jesus was born. Three men, namely Melchior (King of Arabia), Caspar (King of Tarsus) and Balthazar (King of Ethiopia), became very curious about that star and knew that it signified something momentous. So, they followed the bright shining star and ultimately reached Jesus’s birthplace. The three men, on seeing infant Jesus, bowed down and offered him gold. They regarded him as the saviour of humankind and went back with a security that there will be peace and goodwill once again.
Santa Claus
According to the tradition, Santa Claus is portrayed as a joyous white-bearded man who lives at the North Pole, along with his army of magical elves and flying reindeers. Santa Claus is said to bring gifts to children during the midnight of 24th December. So, small children write their wishes on a piece of paper, put it in a sock and hang it near their windows in a hope that Santa will come and fulfil their wishes.
Celebrations
The Christmas Day signifies love, kindness, joy & happiness and is celebrated with great zeal & enthusiasm all around the world. Popular customs include decorating the Christmas tree, exchanging gifts, sharing meals with families & friends, visiting churches, singing carols and most importantly, waiting for Santa’s visit. People decorate their houses with lights & candles. Besides this, the churches all across the country are also beautifully decorated with flowers & candles and are illuminated with lights.
How to celebrate Christmas with your children?
- Get a Christmas tree from the local market and along with your children, decorate it with ornaments, lights and ribbons.
- Ask your children to write down a wish list of toys they would like to receive from Santa and tell them to put the wish list in stockings and hang near the window.
- Buy these toys and presents for your children as well as the other family members and place it near the Christmas tree on the 24th December midnight.
- Help your children to prepare Christmas carols and present it in front of other family members and friends.
- Take your children to visit the nearest church.
- Teach your children about the real spirit of Christmas, i.e., “Giving & Sharing”.
- Ask your children to take out some of their old toys, clothes or books and donate these items in a nearby NGO or orphanage.
So, along with your children indulge in the celebrations and the fun & frolic of this festival by spreading the spirit of joy, happiness & kindness.
