CHRISTMAS CAROLS
Christmas carols are generally thought to be the more religious themed
of the Christmas songs. Christmas carols tell the story of Christ’s
birth on Christmas morning and celebrate the Christianity behind the
modern commercialism of Christmas day. With everything to be accomplished
in the preparation of Christmas it may be easy to forget the meaning
behind the holiest of days amidst all the holiday shopping, decorating
and party going. Christmas carols are a great way to reconnect with the
spiritual roots of Christmas while enjoying the festivity of the season.
Christmas carols can always be heard in church masses on
Christmas Eve and Christmas morning sung by a choir or by
the congregation as a whole. However, the beauty of the music and the
feeling of Christmas warmth they inspire have moved Christmas carols
from exclusively in the church to a place in popular Christmas music
among their more secular counterparts. For instance, some radio stations
change their programming to all Christmas music on the days leading
up to the special morning and in this line up favorite Christmas carols
like “O Holy Night” and “Silent
Night” can be heard right before “Deck the Halls” and “Chestnuts
Roasting on an Open Fire”. Christmas carols have also be added
to compilations available on CD to be enjoyed in your home while decorating
the tree or opening the presents.
Christmas carols are also a great way to teach your children
the meaning behind Christmas while honing their creative
musical abilities and most importantly making it fun. Teach your children
to sing along to Christmas carols and then explain each line or stanza
in its relation to the birth of Christ, the manger in which he lay
or the three kings which came bearing gifts in celebration of his birth.
Song books are available to provide the lyrics to favorite Christmas
carols and will make this task a little easier. However you choose
to celebrate Christmas, carols are sure to be heard sung by carolers
or even as you make your way through the busy mall. Be sure to stop,
take a breath and listen to these angelic songs to remind you of what
the season is truly about.
