An Evaluation of Christmas Tradition in Germany, in Estonia and in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Christmas, a festival celebrating the birth of Jesus, is an important festival in both Germany and in Estonia and moreover to Catholics and Christians in Sri Lanka. Since the early 20th century, Christmas has also been a celebration of family, love, and contemplation. Reading a good book, having a good conversation, finding time for each other is what counts for Christmas. Nevertheless, differences of rituals can be seen between Roman Catholic and Protestant churches. Roman Catholic churches celebrate the first Christmas mass at mid night, and Protestant churches have held Christmas night services late on the evening of December 24. Many research studies regarding the Christmas Tradition concentrate on the Roman Catholic and Protestant rituals and traditions. However, it was noticed that Students of both Estonia and Sri Lanka did not have the knowledge about theme of Diversity of Christmas Culture and Tradition in Germany, in Estonia and in Sri Lanka. The findings of this study were based on the researchers’ experience in the Virtual Mobility Project with Tallinn University; Estonia. Data was collected through the discussions, comparisons, and presentations during the project with the students of Estonia and Sri Lanka. Moreover, secondary data was gathered through books and online articles. This study analyzes the diversity of customs and traditions of the festive Christmas in Germany, Estonia and in Sri Lanka. The objective of the study is to provide a knowledge and a mutual understanding about the diversity of customs and traditions of the festive Christmas in Germany, Estonia and in Sri Lanka.