Winter Holidays
Christmas (December 25th)
Mawlid is the observance of the birthday of the Islamic Prophet Muhammad. Most Muslims observe this holiday, but there are a few denominations that disapprove and consider it unnecessary. Celebrations of Mawlid include sharing food, attending lectures, participating in marches, and reading the Qur’an and devotional poetry.
Mawlid (December 1st)
Hanukkah commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem in the second century BCE and is celebrated for eight days and nights with activities such as lighting the menorah and exchanging gifts. Hanukkah was a relatively minor holiday until the past century when it gained popularity alongside Christmas, and has no mandates to celebrate outside of the home. Observers therefore usually do not have to worry about purchasing tickets or synagogue membership fees for Shabbat services.
Hanukkah (December 12th – 20th)
Christmas is an annual Christian holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus. There are several branches of Christianity and hundreds of denominations and subgroups, each with different ways to celebrate Christmas, but most celebrate by giving gifts to friends and loved ones and by giving to charity. Although tithing (giving money) is not a requirement to attend Christian worship services, it’s also a time when giving is highly encouraged and expected so that faith communities are able to provide more services and charity for their communities during the season.
By Elija Cumpton
Coordinator, Office of Spiritual Life