A Cultural Jew Finds Faith and Joy at Christmas

"As a Jewish child, I never celebrated Christmas. I found out what I was missing on Christmas Eve, 1973.

"My high school boyfriend Brian invited me to join his family for their celebration. The event floored me. It wasn't just the illuminated tree, the music, and the pleasure of opening gifts. It was the power of the holiday to transform Brian's ordinary family.

"Laughing, singing hymns, praying -- they were absolutely radiant. I had never seen them so joyful. And in their presence, I felt joyful, too.... more

The Silent Monks "Sing" the Halleluiah Chorus!

Merry Tossmas - From My House to Your Store (where I'm not shopping)!

Now this is an idea that can really see results. Suppose every Christian who got a "holiday" gift catalogue tossed it in the circular file. Wouldn't retailers take note? I've decided it's a good strategy. So any store that sends me a "holiday" catalogue this year can save a tree by dropping me from its mailing list. Merry Christmas, Costco, and all you other Grinchy stores who refuse to use the word Christmas. You are off my Christmas (or as you say "holiday") shopping route. Ho! Ho! Ho! Merry Christmas! Or Merry Tossmas if you prefer.

Happy St. Nicholas Day!

Every time you see that jolly man in the red suit remember the real man behind the white beard, St. Nicholas, Bishop of Myra, who was persecuted and imprisoned under the Roman emperor Diocletian. The Merrifield nursery in northern Virginia used to have a wonderful Santa who explained to the older children that he was the "clown of Christmas." Then using a model of the nativity scene he explained to children the real meaning of Christmas. We took our children to see him more years ago than I care to think about. But he seemed timeless so maybe he's still there or has passed his gentle faith onto another Santa filling his shoes. I hope so.

Don't forget during this season to keep Christ in Christmas. You can do that in a number of ways. Light your advent wreath every evening and sing O Come, O Come, Emmanuel. Send cards with a religious theme. If you go caroling be sure to include songs like Away in the Manger and O Holy Night and not just politically correct "holiday" songs like Jingle Bells. If someone wishes you "Happy Holidays" respond with a smile and "a happy holy day to you too." St. Nicholas Day anticipates the coming of the Christ child. And how Christians look forward to that day. Let us rejoice and be glad and share our joy with all those around us. And don't be shy. No one who has any sense is offended by the Christmas spirit, as is illustrated by Ben Stein's wonderful essay. Have a happy advent and a holy St. Nick's day.