The
Legend of the First Christmas Tree
An evergreen sprang from the centre of an oak
cut down by St. Boniface. The oak symbolized paganism, and its death brought an
end to the old ways. The new tree was “the sign of endless life, for its leaves
are evergreen.” St. Boniface took this as a sign of the Christian faith.
HISTORY:
11th
Century
During
Advent, religious plays were performed around Europe. There was always a tree
on stage, decorated with red apples, to symbolize the Tree of Paradise.
15th
Century
The
faithful began displaying paradise trees in their homes on December 24, the
feast of Adam and Eve. Oh,
Christmas Tree
16th
Century
Decorated
standing trees became popular in Germany and France. Immigrants brought the
tradition to America, but the custom was not popular until the 19th century.
18th
Century
The
Christmas tree tradition started in Canada!
The
Christmas tree reminds us of:
- The tree planted in the centre of Eden
- The tree of the Cross
The
decorating of the Christmas tree offers an opportunity for family prayer.
PRAYER
We
praise you for the beauty of this tree:
May
its evergreen branches remind us of your unending care of all people;
May
it lights illumine the darkness of the winter nights;
May its presence bring
cheer and hope for all people. Amen.
