Following the Mass of the Immaculate Conception on campus, St. Mary’s Dominican High School 8th grader Julia Porteous and junior Hannah Solomon were recognized as Keep Christ in Christmas winners for their essays. The Clarion Herald, the Department of Catholic Education, and Faith Formation Council of Catholic School Cooperative Clubs sponsor the annual essay, poetry, and poster contest for students who attend Catholic elementary and high school and students who participate in Parish Schools of Religion. All winning essays will be in the December 21st issue of The Clarion Herald.
At the award presentation for winning Keep Christ in Christmas essays are (from left) St. Mary’s Dominican High School Principal Mrs. Carolyn Favre, junior Hannah Solomon, presenter Fern Lambert Carr, 8th grader Julia Porteous, and Dominican President Dr. Cynthia A. Thomas.
Julia Porteous, Dominican Class of 2029
Keep Christ in Christmas
During Christmas time, many people think about what to put on their list, the presents they will get their friend, and how excited they are to eat all the Christmas time foods. While all this is fun, it isn’t necessarily important to the genuine meaning of Christmas. Many people forget this real meaning of Christmas, which is Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ was born to save us from Original Sin and the Christmas season is a time to reflect and prepare for his birth. The word Christ which is the first part of Christmas is a reminder that even though the real meaning may be forgotten it is always there. An easy way to keep Christ in Christmas is donating gifts like toys, clothes, and food to families in need. Also, simple acts of kindness like holding the door, smiling at the stranger, letting someone go in front of you in line, complimenting people around you, or sending holiday cards to hospitals or nursing homes can help spread the love of Jesus Christ during the holiday season. Additionally, taking time away from all the holiday festivities for personal prayer, going to confession, going to Sunday mass, and self-reflection is another way to keep Christ in Christmas in personal life. Though sometimes the real meaning of Christmas is forgotten, we can always find ways to remind ourselves and others of the true meaning through acts of kindness, generosity, and spreading love to others around you.
Hannah Solomon, Dominican Class of 2026
Time for Remembrance
Christmas is presents, family, giving, and receiving. It is about the “Christmas feelings” and the cozy, comforting times. Despite this attitude, there is something more important to Christmas than just gifts and hot cocoa. The more significant aspect to Christmas is Jesus. There would be no Christmas without Jesus.
Many use Christmas as a time to get together with family (extended and close); however, many leave out one member of their family every year: Jesus. Many people get so excited about the gatherings and presents that they overlook going to Mass and the meaning of presents. When people do this, however, they completely ignore one of the most important birthdays. The whole point of Christmas is to celebrate the birth of the savior of humanity. Also, presents resemble the gifts the wise men brought to Jesus on his birth. People often give presents and do not realize that that is where it is from.
Many recognize Christmas year-round from the decorations themselves, but do not realize that those same decorations have deeper religious meanings. One prime example of this is the star on the top of the tree. Topping off the tree with a star is almost a celebration in itself; however, it is actually meant to represent the North Star that guided everyone to Jesus when he was born. As it did then, many should look at the tree topper as a remembrance and guide back to Jesus, the source of this beloved holiday.
Although Christmas is a time for family and gift giving, it is important to remember not to leave out Jesus, the most important family member. It is also important to remember the things we love about the holiday all connect back to Christ. So, remember when you are celebrating, to keep Christ in Christmas.