There are many stories surrounding the origin of the Christmas tree – all ranging from pagan rituals to Martin Luther. While the Romans and Greeks may have decorated with evergreens for the new year, and pagans may have used the trees for sacrifice and worship during the Winter Solstice, it is Martin Luther who is credited with bringing the first tree indoors.

“The Christmas tree comes to us from Martin Luther, who is credited with being inspired by the starry heavens one night and expressing his feelings to his family by bringing a fir tree into his home and attaching lighted candles to its branches. Fir meant fire—and fire is an ancient symbol for spirit. The tree also pointed toward the heavens. Eventually, decorative balls represented the planets, while the star that radiates from the top reminds us of Bethlehem. The entire tree with its decorations teaches us that the universe is witness to the Incarnation. In fact, the Christmas tree is just one more sign of Jesus’ birth. It is a means of retelling a miracle in a colourful and beautiful way, so that we can further understand and appreciate Jesus entering our world.”
From Charlie Cleverly, St. Aldate’s, Oxford

It’s interesting to me to find out that Christmas was once illegal in the colonies. Early Puritans considered it pagan – Christmas and Christmas trees didn’t become popular in the US until the 1800’s. The tradition was brought over by German Immigrants. Early trees were decorated with candles, fruit, flowers, and home made ornaments created to symbolize Christ.

Today’s Christmas trees are as different as the people who own them. I’ve seen some of the most beautiful trees ever in the homes of my friends. They decorate the trees themselves and they flow with symmetry and design.

We didn’t have a lot of money growing up, so my trees were always decorated with hand made ornaments, popcorn and cranberry strings, and a few glass balls. My husband grew up with a tree only decorated by his mother and it was just glass balls and lights.

We’ve combined our tastes and have a tradition of decorating the tree as a family. Does it flow? Is there symmetry? Probably not. But it IS beautiful. And the memories we have created by doing it together, are irreplaceable.

One of my many angels tucked inside the branches

Our angel on top of the tree. We used to have a star, but it broke and we couldn’t find another one that we liked.