“Merry Christmas” or “Happy Christ-birth”

Dr. J Hernes M Abante

Revelation 22:13 - “I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last.”

The term "Christmas" has become a subject of contention among those who oppose its use. Some Christians consider this word an oxymoron, arguing that attaching “Christmas” to Christ creates a disconnect both practically and theologically.

At first, I thought the inclusion of the word "mass" was inappropriate, since, within Catholic tradition, it refers specifically to the Eucharistic celebration. This highlights the doctrine of transubstantiation, which teaches that the bread and wine literally transform into the flesh and blood of Jesus Christ when the priest prays over them.

Some avoid using the term “Christmas” altogether to prevent association with the world's largest Christian religion. Consequently, we hear alternative phrases like “Merry Christ-birth,” or “Happy Nativity,” as well as secular greetings such as “Happy Holidays,” to sidestep the religious connotation.

Should we stop using “Merry Christmas” altogether, or compromise by accepting its use since it is widely recognized worldwide? Similarly, should we also avoid the term “Christian” because it was initially used mockingly by opponents of Jesus Christ and His followers?

Before dismissing the word “Christmas,” let us examine its origins and understand the root of “mass” and its original meaning.

It is a fact that the name Christmas is a combination of two words, Christ and mass." Early English Catholics first used this term in the 11th century. Although the exact individual who coined it remains unknown, scholars believe it was influenced by the writings of Venerable Bede, an esteemed English monk and scholar, who mentioned the holiday in his 8th-century work "The Reckoning of Time' in 725 CE.

The word 'mass' derives from the Latin 'missa,' which originates from the verb "mittere," meaning "to send" or "dismiss." It originally signified the conclusion of the service or a meeting, from which the English word “dismissal” also came. Over time, it evolved into the word "mass,” with a different meaning.

We can now see why God allowed the term "Christmas" to be used to remember His birth. By combining the two words and knowing the true meaning of missa in Latin, we gain a new and better understanding. It now sends a message about who Jesus Christ is in us - that Jesus is our “Beginning and the End.” He is the “Alpha and Omega,” the “First and the Last.”

Christmas does not serve to magnify a particular religion but encourages believers to focus on Christ’s presence in our lives. It reminds us that Jesus is all we need, and that He is with us from the beginning to the end, never abandoning us. This is an example when we use a word to mean something different, but God meant it for good.

It is alright and appropriate to say “MERRY CHRISTMAS,” for Jesus Christ is all we need!