Christmas Celebrations Around The World
The celebration of Christmas is not only a church or Christian celebration; it has
become a global and the most important observance in the history of mankind. Although how Christmas is celebrated in other countries may differ slightly, the basic underlying feelings that come with the season such as love, peace, giving, and sharing is the same in all parts of the world.Let"s take a peak on how the season is celebrated in countries where Christianity is not a primary religion especially this Christmas2010.
First stop, China
Christmas in China is a simple occasion. Their Christmas tree decors are made of colourful paper which then made into lanterns and chains. Children hand a muslin stockings for Santa to fill it up with treats and toys. The called their Christmas trees "Trees of Light" and called Santa "Dun Chi Lao Ren" that means the Old Man of Christmas. Chinese also celebrate the season with delicious Chinese food and drink and they also remember and honour their ancestors.
Next stop, Egypt.
In Egypt Christmas is celebrated on January 7th. They also have a 40 day advent wherein Egyptians go on fasts. Most of them however, only go on fast in the last week. On Christmas Eve they go to church wearing their best clothes. The chimes at midnight signify the end of Christmas service. They go home and enjoyed meal with their family that consists of boiled meat, garlic, bread, and rice. On Christmas morn, they go out to visit their relatives and friends. They made a kind of short bread called "Kaik"
Christmas in Iraq
Christians Iraqi celebrates Christmas uniquely. Children gather in a patio listen to the stories of Christ"s birth from an Arabic Bible. After the stories are read, light up candles then burn a space in a corner. It is their belief that how the fire burns has a say on how their future will be. They sung the Psalms and afterwards jumped over the ashes three times and then make their wishes.
Christmas day comes and the men in Christian church sang hymns. Blessings and given to each one present at the church as the bishop"s hands is extended to each members.
Lebanese Christmas
A few weeks before Christmas Lebanese plant lentils, wheat, chickpeas, and beams. The seeds would sprout on Christmas day where the young plants will be decorated around the nativity scene surrounding the manger.
Just like the practices around the world, Lebanese would have fellowship with family, relatives, and friends bringing them special treats and gifts. Lunch would be prepared as the whole family would gather around it to partake.
Christmas is not only for Christians but for all people as well. The universal message of love and hope is the dominant spirit during this most beloved season. Although businesses would take advantage of the season by opening up their Christmas shop and sell the Christmas Decors and everything that symbolizes it, still its true meaning which is the birth of Hope is not missed in the celebrations.
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