St. Patrick brought Christmas to Ireland when he Christianized the country at the end of the 5th Century. Much of the history of Ireland is the history of a nation existing as part of another empire, and as a result was a poor nation. This affected the style of their Christmas traditions. Irish Christmas customs reflect the simple beauty and rich faith so characteristic of the Irish people themselves.
The Irish decorate with holly and ivy, both of which are native to Ireland. The holly wreaths that many of us hang on our doors are a continuation of that tradition which was brought to this country by immigrants in the 1840’s during the Great Hunger.
The candle in the window is another. Although there are regional variations in the way this tradition is continued, the symbolic meaning is always the same. The candle symbolizes “welcome” as they remember Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter. Usually, the lighting is accompanied by prayer. Either the youngest child or a child named Mary is given the honor of striking the match. During Penal Times the candle was used as a signal to any priest seeking shelter showing welcome and that it was safe to say Mass there.
A more modern custom is to bring candy when visiting if there are children in the house. In fact, never go anywhere empty handed over the holidays. The worst insult in Irish curses is to be called “cheap.” Once this happens, it will stick to you and for seven generations after.
