In this episode of the Church History podcast, host Lorelee Siemens takes us through Christmas celebrations from the Middle Ages to the Reformation and beyond.

Discover how December 25th became the celebration of Jesus' birth and how traditions like the Yule log, Christmas trees, and carols evolved.

We also explore the impact of the Reformation on Christmas traditions, the Puritans' ban on the holiday, and the revival of Christmas carols. Learn about the fascinating origins of the Christmas tree and the enduring legacy of beloved carols like "The First Noel" and "Joy to the World." Join us for a historical deep dive into the festive season and its rich traditions.

Chapters:

(10:36) The First Noel is one of the earliest known Christmas carols

(16:11) The Puritans outright canceled Christmas in England in 1642

Music:

The First Noel

Christmas sing-along - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I3vx6RGoXSo

The Hound and The Fox - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Az8iKzl0YPE

Abby and Annalie - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0NvLZU5DNvQ

Joy to the World

Nat King Cole - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jgAZVgfUxcg

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Links:

https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens

If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well:

The History of the Hymns: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns

Martin Luther Part 1: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-2484677/martin-luther-part-one

Martin Luther Part 2, Here I Stand: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-2516277/luther-part-two-here-i-stand-i-can-do-no-other

Martin Luther Part 3, The Good Bad & Ugly: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-2547502/luther-part-three-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly