CHRISTMAS TREE TRADITION
The Christmas Tree originated in Germany in the 16th century. It was common for the Germanic people to decorate fir trees, both inside and out, with roses, apples were hung to represent the Tree of Life from the Garden of Eden. By the 17th Century Christmas markets were held to sell not only the trees but also decorations. Originally limited to either white or red decorations to symbolize Innocence and Knowledge. It is believed that Martin Luther, the Protestant reformer, was the first to light a Christmas tree with candles. While coming home one dark winter's night near Christmas, he was struck with the beauty of the starlight shining through the branches of a small fir tree outside his home. He duplicated the starlight by using candles attached to the branches of his indoor Christmas tree. The Christmas tree was not widely used in Britain until the 19th century. It was brought to America by the Pennsylvania Germans in the 1820's.
As we explore the origins of our Christmas traditions, let us remember that Christ is the center of all of them. The literal meaning of Christmas is to celebrate Christ. Let us remember to truly celebrate him, this holiday season.
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