Christmas is one of the most important feasts in Christianity and is celebrated every year on December 25 by millions of believers around the world. This holiday commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem, a central event in the Christian faith that symbolizes hope, peace, and salvation.
According to the Gospels, Jesus was born of the Virgin Mary in humble circumstances, becoming a symbol of humility and divine love for humanity. Over the centuries, this religious event has also taken on a cultural and social dimension, evolving into a celebration that brings families and communities together.
Historically, Christmas began to be officially celebrated by the early Church around the 4th century. The date of December 25 was established during a period when the Roman Empire also observed pagan festivals linked to the winter solstice, allowing Christmas to absorb symbolic elements of light and rebirth. With the spread of Christianity, the feast became institutionalized and took on different forms across various European cultures and beyond.
Today, Christmas is celebrated not only as a religious event but also as a moment of solidarity, generosity, and reflection. Traditions include holy masses, decorating the Christmas tree, exchanging gifts, and gathering families around the festive table.
In Albania as well, Christmas is celebrated by Catholic and Orthodox Christian communities, while in recent years the holiday has become a symbol of coexistence and interfaith harmony. Its message—centered on peace, love, and hope—remains highly relevant in a world facing numerous social and political challenges.
Beyond its religious dimension, Christmas continues to be a universal call for greater understanding, solidarity, and closeness among people.
