Researched by Jerry W. Sanders Xmas Researched by Jerry W. Sanders

X-mas – commercialized? Earliest days of Church history Followers of Christ – Greeks Greek for Christ’s name – Xristos (Christos) Fish - symbol denote churches & Christian gatherings X (chi) – symbol of Faith X marked the place of martyrs X – ultimate symbol of devotion and sacrifice Xmas wasn’t existed 3 ½ centuries later not widely recognized after the designated date

Honored martyrs and Savior Christ’s name abbreviated Almost all documents in ornate style (X) Ink and paper were scarce saved times saved resources Knowledge of Greek language & early history of church Word of power devotional value Honored martyrs and Savior Xmas word by the church reminders Christ’s birth Cross

Couldn’t celebrate Christmas openly Reasons in 1800’s Saved print space Many Americans couldn’t read Today’s culture in America Knowledge of English lack of knowledge of first use by the church Disadvantages for early Greek believers Couldn’t celebrate Christmas openly Paid for their faith with their lives X – The ultimate statement of faith