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Archiver > IA-IRISH > 2001-12 > 1008448822


From: "Sharon J. Yokaitis" <>
Subject: Re: [IA-IRISH] Irish Christmas Traditions
Date: Sat, 15 Dec 2001 15:40:22 -0500
References: <036801c185a0$20522340$0545450c@4ladz> <00d701c185a1$d7f6f740$f951c418@oemcomputer>


Kate,

I might disagree with on whether they knew the meaning of "Little Christmas" ( Feast
of the 3 Kings aka the Epiphany). It has long been noted in Christian (Particularly
Catholic) tradition apart from decorations. Any good Irish Catholic of a certain
age or older, at least, usually knows what January 6 stands for. In Latin
traditions, it IS the day they open presents. Also, since it is the last
Christmas-related date for the season, it is a convenient marker for taking
everything down and getting on with good ole winter.

Sharon Yokaitis in Boston

Kate Lynn wrote:

> Oh Cathy!
>
> These are wonderful. My mother and grandmother were adamant that Christmas
> decorations could not be taken down before Jan. 6th....and I don't think
> they even knew the reason themselves. (I used to like to tell myself it was
> because my birthday was Jan. 5th and they wanted everything still pretty for
> that special day :-) I've kept that same schedule in my own home for
> nearly 40 years. Now I realize that it was most likely a tradition passed
> from the generations - even if the meaning was lost. Thanks for this - I'm
> headed back to read more!
>
> Blessings,
> Kate
>
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