A whopping 81% of people in the United
States who do not identify themselves as Christian still take part in the festivities but what draws
so many people to a holiday typically outside their religion, and how do Christians feel about it?
Over 70% of all Americans who celebrate Christmas say they see it as a more secular holiday
than a religious one. The holiday has become more about their own family and traditions than its
biblical origins. Many people who were raised Christian and have since converted to another
religion or consider themselves atheists say they still participate in the holiday to connect with
their families or just because it’s what they are used to.
Some Hindu families who have immigrated to America say they partake in the holiday to feel
more connected with the country’s culture others say they use it as an opportunity to bring joy to
their children with gifts and festive meals. Most American Muslims do not take part in any of the
traditional festivities as according to some it goes against their religion but some say they still
gather their family on the day off and put up lights or admire them.
Most Christians don’t seem bothered by the fact that non-Christians celebrate the holiday. Some
Christians don’t even celebrate the holiday themselves as the birth of Christ is not explicitly
stated to be a day of celebration in some iterations of the bible. The secularization of Christmas
is seen as a positive by some and a negative by others. Some people of other religions feel it
has made Christmas less avoidable for them. They don’t want to be ostracized for not
participating in the holiday when it is all around them. Even if you don’t need to believe in Christ
to celebrate the holiday it is still anyone’s choice whether they do or not.
Respect those around you this winter no matter how they spend it.