Celebrating Old Christmas in the Community
As we find ourselves in the heart of Winter, we hope this newsletter finds you well and in good spirits. This time of year is particularly special in our Amish community as we prepare to celebrate Old Christmas on January 6th. Known as Epiphany, the Day of the Three Holy Wise Men, or simply Amish Christmas, Old Christmas is a deeply cherished tradition among the Amish, carrying rich historical and religious significance.
The Amish families are also getting ready for the frigid cold that is forecasted for the community next week. With temperatures expected to drop to the single digits, families are ensuring their homes and farms are well-prepared. They are looking forward to the traditional ice-cutting, an activity that will commence soon as the cold weather sets in.
Old Christmas holds a unique place in the hearts of the Amish, rooted in the history of the Julian and Gregorian calendars. When the calendar was reformed in 1582, many Christians, including the Anabaptists (the forebears of the Amish), continued to observe Christmas on January 6th, believing it to be the true day the wise men brought gifts to the baby Jesus. This day of reverence and reflection is observed with a solemnity that sets it apart from the more familiar December 25th Christmas.
In our Amish community, Old Christmas is kept holy through fasting, prayer, and reading. Families refrain from eating until noon, focusing instead on spiritual nourishment and connection. The day is typically spent at home, although some families may attend church services or gather with relatives for communal meals later in the day. The emphasis is on simplicity and devotion, with only the necessary chores being done.
Unlike December 25th, Old Christmas does not feature the same festive decorations or gift exchanges. Amish homes do not have Christmas trees, but you will find an abundance of baked goods lovingly prepared for the occasion. The observance of Old Christmas is more strict, reflecting its sacred nature and the importance of contemplation and gratitude.
Old Christmas is not just a day of religious observance; it is also a time for the Amish community to reflect on their values and traditions. The simplicity of the day serves as a counterbalance to the bustling activities and commercialism often associated with December 25th. It is a day to slow down, to savor the quiet moments of life, and to reconnect with faith and family. The act of fasting until noon symbolizes a spiritual cleansing, a way to prepare the heart and mind for the sacredness of the celebrations that follow.
In addition to fasting, the Amish community engages in heartfelt prayer and scripture reading, drawing closer to their faith. The afternoon is often filled with a large, communal meal, where families gather around the table to share in the harvest bounty and the labor of their hands. The food prepared for Old Christmas is simple and nourishing, reflecting the Amish commitment to a life of humility and gratitude. Baked goods, fresh produce, and home-cooked dishes are lovingly made, and the fellowship accompanying the meal is a cherished part of the day.
Stories from Our Amish Basket Weavers
Here are a few happenings the families dedicated to weaving the beautiful baskets featured on AmishBaskets.com have shared with us this week.
The Mast Family
The Mast family has been busy with preparations for the cold weather, expected to bring lows in the single digits. They spent the week making sure their firewood stockpile is sufficient to keep their home warm. Rosa enjoyed a quiet afternoon on Friday, baking bread and cookies to share with their neighbors. The children helped by tending to the animals and ensuring their shelters are secure against the chill. Evenings of this past week were spent together, playing simple games and sharing stories by the woodstove.
The Yoder Family
Rebecca and her children have been getting ready for Old Christmas by completing household chores and mending their winter garments. They took advantage of the milder days to tidy up the yard and make sure the chicken coop was well-insulated against the coming cold. The Yoders are also preparing for ice-cutting, a task they will tackle once the temperatures drop further. For Old Christmas, they'll enjoy a simple meal with a casserole, canned vegetables from their pantry, and a homemade apple pie for dessert, cherishing the time spent together as a family.
The Gingerich Family
The Gingerich family has been preparing their home and farm for the impending frigid weather. They spent time ensuring their animal shelters are secure and their firewood supply is ready for the cold snap. The children enjoyed helping their mother clean and organize the house in anticipation of Old Christmas. The family looks forward to a day of fasting until noon, followed by a meal shared together. As they brace for the cold, they plan to spend cozy evenings indoors, reading and enjoying the warmth of their home.
"Live each short hour with God and the long years will take care of themselves."
— Amish Wisdom
