Christmas and Advent

Christmas can be a time when many people struggle with loneliness, grief, and even depression. What should be a season filled with happiness and anticipation can feel ladened with reasons to retreat in isolation from the world around us. Single people can feel a compounded effect because they are unmarried and tend to live alone.

Kwanzaa has evolved over time, and while some African American families observe it separately from Christmas, others celebrate it alongside other faith holidays.

Boxing Day is also about giving to the poor and helping them experience the magic of Christmas. Even though many countries do not celebrate Boxing Day, it is an important holiday with noble roots.

Christmas reveals God’s greatest gift: Jesus, our eternal hope and salvation.

Maybe you call him St. Nicholas, but have you wondered whether he's a real saint?

If you are facing a difficult period or feeling overwhelmed by many tasks, attempt to seek a peaceful location where you can pray and have a conversation with God about your concerns. He cares about it all, the big and the small of this holiday season.

The Christmas story in the Bible reminds us how God works big miracles through ordinary people.

A prayer for you to pray for week four of Advent as we celebrate the love Christ brings.

Archaeologists in Turkey have discovered a sarcophagus near St. Nicholas Church in Antalya's Demre neighborhood, believed to be linked to Saint Nicholas, the 4th-century bishop who inspired the legend of Santa Claus. The find, unearthed in its original position within a two-story annex, aligns with historical accounts of Saint Nicholas’ burial near the sacred area of Myra. Researchers, led by associate professor Ebru Fatma Findik, are continuing excavations and restorations, aiming to shed light on this significant historical and cultural site.

Christmas is a wonderful time of year, but often it’s a struggle for single parents. Disappointment seems to resurface.

This holiday season might find you in a lonely, difficult place, but please let me remind you there is always, always hope. Your loneliness does not define you, nor does it have to be a permanent way of life. The Lord knows your circumstances. He sees exactly where you are. And He promises a brighter season to come.

Even when your heart feels heavy, and your mind is consumed with wondering how you got here, there is still hope and help.

I am humbled in gratefulness and moved by the Spirit to pray for parents whose innocent Christmas joy is absent this year.

We hope you enjoy these wonderful performances of the best Christmas hymns of all time. Be inspired by the power of music to rejoice and give thanks for our Savior, Jesus Christ!

A recent survey by the American Psychology Association reveals that despite political differences, 83% of U.S. adults agree the holidays are a time to set aside tensions and reconnect with family, though younger adults are more likely to skip gatherings altogether. The holidays offer an opportunity for families to embrace fellowship, express gratitude, and strengthen relationships through spiritual connection, cherishing loved ones while setting aside divisive politics.