Christmas History & Origins
Christmas began to be celebrated on different dates because of differences between these two calendars.
What are the Julian and Gregorian calendars?
This Old Testament prophet foretold that a virgin would conceive and bear a Son.
Who is Isaiah?
Coptic Christmas is celebrated on this date.
What is January 7?
This symbol reminds Christians of everlasting life, since it stays green even in winter.
What is the Christmas tree?
Saint Nicholas lived and served as a bishop in this city, located in modern-day Turkey.
What is Myra?
Before Christmas was widely celebrated, Christians focused more on this major feast.
What is Easter?
This prophet prophesied that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem, though it was a small town.
Who is Micah?
The Coptic Church fasts for this many days before Christmas.
What is 43 days?
This object placed at the top of the tree represents the Star that guided the Magi to Christ.
What is the Star of Bethlehem?
He is considered the patron saint of children because of his deep compassion and secret acts of generosity, especially toward the young and poor.
Who is Saint Nicholas?
The tradition of sending Christmas cards began in this country.
What is England?
This prophetic name given to Christ means “God with us.”
Emmanuel?
This feast celebrates the birth of Christ.
What is the Nativity Feast?
These are used in church and homes to symbolize Christ as the Light of the world who drives away darkness.
What are candles?
The modern tradition of giving gifts at Christmas comes from Saint Nicholas’s habit of secretly giving to those in need, often at night.
What is secret charity?
This country is credited with starting the tradition of Christmas trees.
What is Germany?
This title of Christ means “Anointed One” and shows He is King, Priest, and Prophet.
What is Messiah (Christ)?
The Nativity Fast is also known as this fast.
What is the Fast of St. Mary?
This circular decoration made of evergreen branches represents eternity, God’s unending love, and victory.
What is a Christmas wreath?
Saint Nicholas is famously associated with this major Church council where he defended the divinity of Christ against heresy.
What is the First Ecumenical Council of Nicea?
December 25 was officially recognized as Christmas in the Roman Empire during the reign of this emperor.
Who is Emperor Constantine?
This prophecy describes the Messiah as a great light shining in darkness, fulfilled by Christ’s coming into the world. (Give Bible Verse!)
What is Isaiah 9:2?
This special prayer is prayed on Christmas Eve night.
What is the Midnight Praises (Tasbeha)?
This gift brought by the Magi symbolizes Christ’s kingship and divinity, showing He is the King of Kings.
What is gold?
One famous miracle tells how Saint Nicholas saved three poor girls by secretly providing this, allowing them to marry honorably.
What is gold (dowries)?