What Is Christmas and When Did it Start?

Christmas, the cherished annual Christian festival celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, is a time-honored tradition observed on December 25th in the Western Church. The origins of this date trace back to ancient times, with its association dating as far back as A.D. 273. Interestingly, the historical significance of December 25th intersects with two pagan festivals that honored the sun. Some historical accounts suggest that the choice of December 25th for Christmas was deliberate, aiming to counteract the influence of these pagan celebrations.

Nevertheless, even today, a lingering unease about Christmas persists among certain individuals who worry that its historical connection to pagan festivals might somehow taint its Christian significance. However, at the heart of the Christian faith lies the belief that the gospel not only transcends cultural influences but also has the power to transform them. In the early 4th century, around A.D. 320, a theologian responded to these concerns by offering a profound perspective, stating, "We hold this day holy, not like the pagans because of the birth of the sun, but because of Him who made it." This eloquent assertion underscores the essence of Christmas—honoring the birth of Jesus Christ as the true source of light and hope, transcending any historical associations and reaffirming the profound spiritual significance of this sacred holiday.