The Christmas Tree has been adopted by Christians as part of our Advent and Christmastide. Here, we look at some of the symbolism of this popular tradition.
The Christmas Tree: Legends, Traditions, History by Lino Lozzo L’Osservatore Romano
CHRISTMAS TREE IS SYMBOL OF CHRIST, SAYS POPE JOHN PAUL II and a Sign of “Undying Life”
VATICAN CITY, DEC. 19, 2004 (Zenit.org).-The evergreen Christmas tree is a symbol of life offered by Christ, “God’s supreme gift to humanity,” says John Paul II. The Pope explained the meaning of the tree during his Angelus address today to the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square.
… “In winter the evergreen becomes a sign of undying life,” he said.”In general, the tree is decorated and Christmas gifts are placed under it. The symbol is also eloquent from a typically Christian point of view: It reminds us of the ‘tree of life,’ representation of Christ, God’s supreme gift to humanity.
“The message of the Christmas tree, therefore, is that life is ‘evergreen’ if one gives: not so much material things, but of oneself: in friendship and sincere affection, and fraternal help and forgiveness, in shared time and reciprocal listening.”
The History of Christmas Trees
Explaining the Meaning of Christmas Symbols: The Spruce
Christmas Tree Blessing Catholic News Service
