CHRISTMAS

Legend : Jesus was born to Mary in Immaculate Conception. She was a virgin, and an angel had told her and Joseph that she would bear a special baby. They moved from their home Nazareth to Bethlehem (near Jerusalem), and Jesus was born in the stable in a manger. After the birth three wise men came to look for Him, bearing three gifts. They had seen a new star in the sky, and knew that it told of the birth of a special king. They followed the direction of the star- east - and eventually found the place where Mary, Joseph and Jesus were staying. To bring honour to the child, they brought rich gifts: gold, frankincense (a resin which burns with a beautiful smell), and myrrh (plant oil with a very strong sweet smell).

Practice : Christmas is a major event in Indian Christian households. There is a midnight mass held at all the churches on the night of 24-25 December and people attend church the next day too. It is a time for cakes and turkey though most of the Christians in India substitute chicken for turkey. Christmas trees are put up and decorated in homes and department stores, stuffed with gifts and sweets.