Childermas definitions
| Word backwards | samredlihC |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Childermas is a noun. |
| Syllabic division | Chil-der-mas |
| Plural | The plural form of Childermas is Childermases. |
| Total letters | 10 |
| Vogais (3) | i,e,a |
| Consonants (7) | c,h,l,d,r,m,s |
Childermas, also known as Holy Innocents' Day, is a Christian feast commemorating the massacre of young male children in Bethlehem by King Herod as recounted in the Gospel of Matthew. The day falls on December 28th, just three days after Christmas.
Childermas is a solemn occasion in the liturgical calendar, honoring the innocent children who were martyred simply because of Herod's fear of losing his throne to a newborn king, Jesus. These children are considered the first martyrs of Christianity, a somber reminder of the persecution faced by early believers.
Origins of Childermas
The story of the massacre of the innocents is not found in any other ancient source outside the Gospel of Matthew. The event is said to fulfill the prophecy in Jeremiah 31:15, "a voice was heard in Ramah, wailing and loud lamentation, Rachel weeping for her children; she refused to be consoled because they are no more."
Observance of Childermas
Childermas is observed with various traditions, including prayers for the souls of the Holy Innocents and reflection on the importance of innocence and purity. In some cultures, it is a day for children to play pranks or engage in light-hearted mischief, symbolizing the chaos and disruption caused by Herod's actions.
Modern Significance
While Childermas may not be as widely recognized as other Christian feasts, it serves as a poignant reminder of the suffering and injustice experienced by the most vulnerable members of society. It calls on believers to uphold the values of innocence, compassion, and protection of children in a world that is often plagued by violence and cruelty.
Childermas stands as a testament to the resilience of faith in the face of adversity and persecution. It invites believers to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas beyond the celebrations and festivities, reminding them of the sacrifices made by those who came before them.
Childermas Examples
- Childermas is a traditional Christian feast that commemorates the massacre of the Holy Innocents by King Herod.
- The Childermas service at the church was a somber and reflective occasion.
- In some cultures, Childermas is observed with special prayers and hymns.
- The story of the Holy Innocents is often retold during the Childermas season.
- Childermas falls on December 28th, right after Christmas Day.
- Many churches hold a special Childermas procession to remember the slain children.
- Families may light candles in memory of the Holy Innocents on Childermas.
- Childermas is a time to reflect on the innocence of children and the need to protect them.
- Some communities have a tradition of giving gifts to children on Childermas.
- The Childermas liturgy includes readings from the Bible about the tragedy of King Herod's slaughter.