Christmas is the Christian celebration of the birth of the Christ child. It is a time of rejoicing and celebration. Love, family, and togetherness are important themes. Most of the Christmas story is told in the Bible, in the gospels of Saint Luke and Saint Matthew. Mary and Joseph, seeking shelter from a storm, entered the town of Bethlehem. The innkeeper, having no rooms left, let them stay in the stable with the animals. After the birth of Christ, a star appeared over the stable and led people to the baby Jesus. Twelve days after the birth, the Magi or Three Kings, arrived carrying gifts for the infant.

                              The first mention of December 25 as the birth date of Jesus occurred in A.D. 336 in an early Roman calendar. The celebration of this day as Jesus' birth date was probably influenced by pagan (unchristian) festivals held at that time. The ancient Romans held year-end celebrations to honor Saturn, their harvest god; and Mithras, the god of light. Various peoples in northern Europe held festivals in mid-December to celebrate the end of the harvest season. As part of all these celebrations, the people prepared special foods, decorated their homes with greenery, and joined in singing and gift giving. These customs gradually became part of the Christmas celebration.
     The celebration of Christmas became increasingly important to many kinds of businesses during the 1900's. Today, companies manufacture Christmas ornaments, lights, and other decorations throughout the year. Other firms grow Christmas trees, holly, and mistletoe. Many stores and other businesses hire extra workers during the Christmas season to handle the increase in sales.

     A long time ago, a bishop named Nicholas lived in what is now the country of Turkey. No one knows much about him. But there are stories that he often helped children who were in need. Many years after his death, Nicholas was made a saint. In time, he became the patron saint of children. Today, the date of his death, December 6, is an important date in some countries in Europe. On the night before, children put out their shoes and hang up their stockings. Early next morning, they rush to see what gifts Saint Nicholas left them. Saint Nicholas visits towns and cities, leads parades, talks to children, and often hands out small gifts. He is dressed as a bishop, of course, wearing a red or white robe and a tall, pointed hat.