The Perception of a Christmas Conflict

A YouGov survey indicates that 40% of Americans firmly believe there is a war on Christmas. This sentiment is particularly prevalent among Christians, who feel that secular influences are attempting to replace the traditional Christmas narrative with a more generalized “holiday” concept, effectively erasing religious references from public life.

One prominent Christian figure articulates this concern:

“Retailers, educational institutions, and communities across the nation are increasingly finding reasons to eliminate any religious elements related to Christmas, thereby stripping it of its sacred or historical meaning. Spiritual connections such as Christian songs and prayers are either removed or marginalized.”

— Franklin Graham, son of the renowned evangelist Billy Graham

The Greeting Debate: “Merry Christmas” vs. “Happy Holidays”

The trend among retailers to instruct employees to use “Happy Holidays” instead of “Merry Christmas” is viewed as a significant battleground in this conflict. As one critic notes:

“‘Happy Holidays!’ Each time a cashier greets you with these words instead of ‘Merry Christmas,’ you are encountering another participant in the struggle against Christmas.”

— John Gibson in his book, The War on Christmas

For many who see Christmas as primarily a celebration of Christ’s birth, the notion of a war against this holiday seems indisputable. However, there are those who contest this perspective.

Skepticism From Secularists and Academics

Academics often dismiss the idea of a Christmas war. For instance, one professor stated:

“There is no war on Christmas… It simply does not exist. It never has.”

— David Kyle Johnson, Professor of Philosophy at King’s College

Additionally, Michelle Goldberg argues that the perceived war on Christmas is a myth built on outdated narratives and exaggerated stories.

This discrepancy raises the question: why do some perceive a fierce conflict over Christmas, while others regard it as a mere fabrication?

Defining the Celebrations

The core of the issue may lie in the fact that opposing sides are conflating three distinct year-end celebrations. These can be categorized as:

1. Christmas
2. XMAS
3. The Holidays

By differentiating these terms, we may find a pathway toward reconciliation in the Christmas discourse.

Understanding Christmas

For Christians, the Bible offers a clear definition of Christmas:

“Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”

— Luke 2:10-12, NKJV

For Christians, this holiday celebrates God's ultimate gift to humanity, encapsulating the promise of eternal life and the message of peace and goodwill on earth.

The Concept of XMAS

“XMAS” is often used as a shorthand for “Christmas,” but in this context, it represents the cultural and commercial aspects of the celebration. XMAS encompasses Santa Claus, family gatherings, and gift exchanges, capturing the essence of the season while minimizing the significance of Christ.

The Nature of “The Holidays”

“The Holidays” refer to a more secular celebration at the end of the year. While it includes some cherished traditions of XMAS, it intentionally omits any Christian references.

Finding Common Ground in the Christmas Wars

To resolve these conflicts, it is essential to recognize that these celebrations are fundamentally different.

To end the contention over Christmas, we should allow individuals to celebrate according to their preferences.

Christians may wish to honor the true Christmas and its significance. Secular individuals might choose to celebrate “the holidays” devoid of any Christian connotations. Additionally, many around the world, regardless of faith, may want to incorporate elements of XMAS into their year-end festivities.

By permitting everyone to select their own celebration, we eliminate the basis for conflict.

Embracing Tolerance

Christians ought to remember that Christmas is not a biblically mandated observance, and individuals are not obligated to celebrate it. If non-Christians opt for a secular holiday season, that choice should be respected.

Conversely, secular individuals should refrain from obstructing any religious expressions during Christmas celebrations. A notable example is the beloved television special “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” where Charles Schulz successfully included a recitation of the biblical nativity story, despite initial resistance from network executives concerned about religious references.

Many advocates for “inclusion” may fail to recognize that their insistence on promoting “The Holidays” as the sole acceptable public celebration imposes their values on others, which contradicts the essence of true inclusion.

A Call for Peace in the Christmas Discourse

Ultimately, the driving force behind the so-called “war on Christmas” stems from both sides’ desire to dictate how others should celebrate the season.

If believers can honor Christmas, secularists can celebrate “The Holidays,” and everyone can choose how much of XMAS they wish to incorporate, the disputes will dissipate.