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Origins of Christmas

n History of a Holy Day C hristmas is one of the most widely celebrated holidays in the world. Observed since the fourth century, today both Christians and many non-Christians celebrate the festival on December 24 (Christmas Eve) and 25 (Christmas Day). The word Christmas comes from a combination of the words Christ’s mass . For Christians, Christmas is a time of joyful celebration as well as a time to express their faith, since the holiday commemorates the birth of Jesus. Most historians believe Jesus was a real person who grew up in Nazareth,

words to understand Census : A count of the population.

Epiphany : January 6, which is observed as a church holiday. In Eastern churches, it is considered the date of Christ’s birth. For others, it is observed in remembrance of the magis’ visit to the baby Jesus. Icon : A small religious painting, usually painted on wood; also a symbolic image such as an icon of a file folder on a computer screen. Reenactment : The acting out of an event that took place in the past, such as historical events.

t  The birth of Jesus, a symbol of joyful celebration, is at the heart of Christmas.

Origins of Christmas n

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