Christmas and Channukah

By Sara Dimerman

Often, people consider Channukah and Christmas to be similar festive events since they usually fall around the same time of year. In fact, there are no similarities between the two. However, inter-faith families, it seems, focus little on the religious aspect of these two celebrations, but rather on the tradition and familiar rituals they observed as children. Mark and Leah moved from Montreal, Quebec to Thornhill, Ontario a couple of years ago. Before they married, Leah converted to Judaism after being raised in a Protestant home. Mark's family was perfectly comfortable with the union since Mark and Leah were simply following in their footsteps. Mark's mother had also converted to Judaism prior to marrying his father, after being raised in a Catholic home.

Mark remembers growing up in a Jewish home. However, the one non-Jewish holiday that was acknowledged was Christmas. Although it was never observed "in the house," Mark has fond memories of visiting his grandparents and receiving lots of gifts by someone dressed as Santa. As a young child Mark remembers feeling very comfortable with both religions, but considered himself a Jew. As he grew older and understood the religious meaning of both holidays, he became less comfortable and more confused about taking part in Christmas festivities. He felt as if he was "cheating" in some way. Later, into adulthood, he became more philosophical, always remembering the words that his mother speaks "God is there for either side." Now, he feels fortunate to be able to celebrate the richness of both holidays and even plays the role of Santa at Leah's family's house when they return to Montreal during the Christmas holidays.

Leah, like Mark's mother, raises her children in a Jewish home but wouldn't even contemplate not celebrating Christmas. Christmas represents a very important and cherished time of life for her. She says that although she does not believe "that religion should be the basis of a loving family," that the joy and spirit of Christmas can be shared without all the religious undertones. When the family returns to Montreal this Christmas, Leah will have her menorah with her so that she and Mark and their two young daughters can light the candles for eight nights. She's also looking forward to sharing the meaning of Channukah with her young niece and the rest of her family. She has two special children's books about Channukah sitting out with the menorah ready to be packed.

Mark reflects on how the glitz and glamour of Christmas can often overshadow Channukah during the month of December. So, he makes sure to always acknowledge both holidays equally. "Maybe this year, when I'm wearing my Santa suit," he laughs "I'll wear a Jewish Star of David around my neck!!"

© Sara Dimerman B.A.A., Dip.C.S., all rights reserved