The World and Everything In It 12.25.25 Lighting of the National Christmas Tree throughout history and the apostles’s view of the Incarnation
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Dec 25, 2025 Kristen Flavin, a reporter for WORLD, dives into the rich history of the National Christmas Tree lighting ceremony, revealing how presidential speeches have aimed to unite Americans during times of crisis. She highlights poignant moments from past presidents, from Coolidge to Bush, as they used Christmas to bring comfort. Additionally, Peter Mead shares insights on the apostles' view of the Incarnation, emphasizing transformative grace through John's Gospel. Together, they weave a narrative that blends festive tradition with profound theological reflections.
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Tree Lighting As Civic-Religious Symbol
- The National Christmas Tree ceremony blends civic ritual with religious meaning in American public life.
- Presidents use the event to invoke shared faith and civic unity during national moments.
Lighting During Crisis Builds Resolve
- Presidents have invoked the tree lighting to unite Americans during crises like World War II.
- The ceremony frames national response in moral and religious terms to bolster resolve.
Reagan's Star Of Peace
- Ronald Reagan used the tree lighting to signal a spirit of peace toward the Soviet Union in 1987.
- He even lit a star of peace to remind negotiators of the ceremony's purpose during talks with Gorbachev.