At least not as we know it.Since I have been researching my Pilgrim heritage I have often wondered what Christmas was like at Plimoth Colony for my 10th Great grandfather- I found this article written by a minister's at http://garlandsgrace.wordpress.com/ I was surprised by what I learned.
Though they came ashore on Christmas Day, it’s a little odd to talk about the Pilgrims at Christmas, since they did not celebrate Christmas, and they would have frowned on us for doing so. They would have gone to church, though, for they never missed Sabbath worship for any reason. In fact, Sabbath worship is the whole reason for their coming—their worship was the most important part of their lives, and they valued it above their lives.
They would not have complained about a long sermon, or a long drive, since they would have happily walked several miles in the cold or rain. They would not rush off to Christmas dinner; instead, they would sit and savor the Word of God in their hands. They would give a hearty “amen” to the sermon. They would wonder at the books of hymns and they would beg to sing yet another one. They would rejoice that they had a church building where they could meet openly without threats of imprisonment and they would weep with happiness that their children would not have to live in poverty, that they could receive an education, and that they could worship in freedom.
On Christmas Eve, remember the Pilgrims and their first night ashore. It was a beginning for them and for us. Think of them when you go to church, somber with gratitude for what they suffered for us, hopeful and determined to carry on their vision.
But keep the truth in puriety and walk in all humility take heed of pride & contention for that will bring distruction Seeke love & peace & unity and preserve faith, & sanctitie and God will blesse you with his Grace and bring you to his resting place. William Bradford
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2 comments:
Gracious, I'm all for reflection & simplicity, but I do enjoy our pretty and festive Christmases! I don't think I would have enjoyed the Pilgrim Christmases! I knew the pilgrims were austere, but your post was very educational about just how somber they were! But they were closer to the true meaning of Christmas, that is for sure.
I think that we could take bits and pieces of a pilgrim Christmas and apply it to ours. At least the part about really focusing on what it means. I do enjoy our type of Christmas celebrations though, as long as we remember God's gift to us, Jesus the Savior.
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