The Real Meaning of Christmas in Germany

The article ``Germans Grouse at Early, More Commercial Christmas,'' Nov. 23, does not give a suitable picture of this festive season in this country at all. The author does not even seem to know that the exchange of gifts takes place on Christmas Eve and not on Christmas Day, when most families get together and sing traditional religious and popular Christmas hymns. Bach's famous Christmas Oratorio is also performed in most cities.

For many families, Christmas still has religious importance, and there is a well-attended Christmas service with classical music in all Protestant churches. Christmas is a solemn season here, which the article doesn't convey. Hans Sackner, Schorndorf, Germany

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