during the ceremony. To give the candy more spiritual significance, he bent them to look like shepherd’s crooks. Over the years candy cane makers added the red bands—a thick one to represent Christ’s sacrifice, and two smaller ones to show the stripes with which he saved all mankind. The white background symbolized Christ’s sinless nature. Even the flavor—peppermint—has meaning, for in the Old Testament mint (hyssop) was used for purification and sacrifice.
Although originally used in winter solstice ceremonies, and even outlawed in America as a pagan ritual, the evergreen tree has become one of the most poignant symbols of Christianity. The needles, pointing up to heaven, stay green all year long, reminding us that life is everlasting if we look to Him above.
The very first Christmas trees were used in miracle and mystery plays performed in Western Germany during the middle ages. These trees, called “Paradise Trees” were decorated with red apples, and used to tell the story of Adam and Eve. Later, the plays ceased to be performed in Germany, but the symbol was planted in the minds of the people, who began using trees decorated with apples in their own homes to teach their children. The color red is the first color of Christmas, a symbol of Christ’s sacrifice for all. Representing the fruits of redemption, other ornaments were soon added as decorations, starting with wafers (cookies) made from white dough and formed into the shapes of angels, flowers, bells, hearts, and stars.
Gift-giving is a universal tradition that spreads good cheer, and even the wrapping has significance. The bows that we fasten on the tree branches, and top presents with are tied as we should all be,