Every year on 25th of December, the global Christian community celebrates Christmas to remember the birth of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. It is both the most anticipated and significant Christian holiday.

The Bible claims that Mary was visited by the angel Gabriel, who informed her that she would give birth to the Son of God. Jesus, her son, was born in Bethlehem, a city in Palestine, in 6 BC. Jesus was raised in Nazareth, the hometown of Mary and her spouse, Joseph. He taught people to forgive others, to live virtuously, and to honour God to enter God’s kingdom. Jesus often taught using parables, or short stories that illustrated his message. In addition, the Gospels recount several miracles he performed, including healing the ill and turning water into wine.

As many started to follow him opposition to him too started to grow. Some religious authorities believed that the teachings of Jesus were incorrect and misguiding while some others were worried that he would incite a political uprising.

Jesus was arrested and sentenced to death by crucifixion and buried. On the third day after the burial, a group of women visited the tomb of Jesus to discover that the body had disappeared. The Gospels tell that Jesus then appeared and lived on Earth for 40 days following his resurrection until he ascended to heaven. His followers carried on his teachings, and as the message spread, Christianity was born.

Christmas is celebrated as a public holiday in many nations worldwide. With every year that goes by, the festival gains more popularity, and today non-Christian cultures everywhere also join the Christian community in celebrating Christmas. Giving and sharing are two of the most significant aspects of Christmas. People distribute gifts and food to the poor and needy. The festival calls for everyone to celebrate together, leaving no one behind.