Christian History: What Are The Sacred Symbols of Christmas and What Do They Mean?



  • The nativity scene, started by St. Francis of Assisi in 1223, depicts the humble birth of Christ and emphasizes the faith of the Holy Family.
  • The Christmas star represents divine guidance and is associated with the prophecy of Jesus’ birth; it symbolizes hope and purpose.
  • The Christmas tree, with its evergreen branches and lights, symbolizes eternal life and Christ as the Light of the World.
  • Candles at Christmas symbolize Christ as the Light of the World, bringing comfort, peace, and a call to reflect His light to others.

What are the most important religious symbols of Christmas? The nativity scene, or crèche, holds a place of special importance, as it vividly depicts the humble circumstances of Christ’s birth(Prćić, 2023). This tradition, begun by St. Francis of Assisi in 1223, allows us to contemplate the great miracle of God becoming man(Prideaux & Glover, 2015, pp. 955–970). The figures of Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus remind us of the Holy Family’s faith and perseverance. The star symbolizes the divine…

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