Christmas, celebrated as the commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ, is a universal festival in the Christian world. Yet the religious figures associated with this feast vary considerably according to local cultures and traditions. Although these figures share a common spiritual origin, they reflect the cultural diversity and religious practices of different Christian communities. This article explores the major religious figures of Christmas and their role in celebrations around the world.

Jesus Christ, the centre of Christmas

At the heart of all Christian Christmas traditions is Jesus Christ, whose birth is the central event. The figure of the Christ Child, often depicted in a cot or carried in procession, embodies the mystery of the Incarnation: God becoming man to bring salvation to the world. In Catholic and Orthodox churches, the Nativity is often depicted in cots or icons. The Infant Jesus is placed in a manger during liturgical celebrations, symbolically marking his birth. This figure is adored through prayers, songs and offerings, underlining the centrality of Jesus in Christmas festivities.

Mary, the mother of Jesus

Mary, the Virgin, occupies an essential place in Christmas traditions. As the mother of Jesus, she is venerated for her role in the Incarnation and her exemplary faith. In many cultures, Mary is depicted in nativity scenes and Christmas icons, holding the Infant Jesus or praying beside him. Marian hymns, such as the Ave Maria, are often sung at Christmas Masses. In Spain and Latin America, special processions and ceremonies, called Posadas, honour Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem.

Joseph, the adoptive father of Jesus

Joseph, although often in the background in biblical accounts, plays a fundamental role in Christmas tradition. He is the protector of the Holy Family, embodying faith, patience and responsibility. In nativity scenes, Joseph is usually depicted standing by the manger, holding a lamp or a staff. His figure is a reminder of the importance of family and mutual support in the Christian faith.

Angels

Angels occupy a special place in Christmas stories and traditions. They announce the birth of Jesus to the shepherds, sing the glory of God and proclaim peace on earth. In Christmas celebrations, angels are represented as statues, decorations or in songs such as Gloria in Excelsis Deo. Their role is particularly highlighted in midnight Masses and living nativity scenes, where they symbolise the link between heaven and earth.

Shepherds

Shepherds, humble and ordinary figures, are the first to receive the announcement of Jesus' birth. Their presence in the Nativity stories highlights the universal nature of the Christian message, accessible to all, rich or poor. In European traditions, particularly in Provence, shepherds play an important role in nativity scenes and Nativity re-enactments. They are often depicted with their sheep, bearing simple offerings for the Christ Child.

The Magi

The Magi, also known as the Magi kings, symbolise the pagan nations that recognise Jesus as the King of kings. According to Matthew's Gospel, they come from the East to worship the Christ Child and offer him gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. In Christian tradition, the Magi are celebrated on Epiphany, 6 January. In Spain and other Spanish-speaking countries, this day is marked by processions and gift exchanges, with the Magi being the main bearers of presents for children, sometimes replacing the role of Father Christmas.

St Nicholas

St Nicholas, Bishop of Myra, is a religious figure associated with Christmas in many European cultures. Known for his generosity and miracles, he became the patron saint of children and sailors. In several countries, such as the Netherlands and Germany, Saint Nicholas is celebrated on 6 December, when he gives presents and sweets to good children. His legend inspired the figure of Father Christmas, who today embodies a more secular and commercial version of this Christian saint.

Figures specific to certain Christian cultures

The Befana in Italy: in Italy, an old woman called Befana is associated with Christmas and Epiphany. According to legend, she refused to follow the Magi to visit Jesus, but then sought to make up for it by distributing gifts to children. Although her figure has folkloric origins, she is integrated into Christian traditions as a messenger of generosity and repentance.

The Christkind in Germany and Alsace: in Germany and in some French-speaking regions such as Alsace, the Christkind (baby Jesus) is a central Christmas figure. Depicted as an angelic child, he brings gifts to children on 24 December, symbolising Jesus' gift to humanity.

Babushka in Russia: in Russian tradition, Babushka is an old woman who, according to legend, refused to accompany the Magi and then sought to atone for her mistake by giving gifts to children. Although this figure has folkloric origins, she illustrates the Christian notion of redemption.

The importance of religious figures in Christmas celebrations

Religious figures play a key role in Christmas celebrations, recalling the spiritual origins of the festival. They enable believers to connect with the central message of the Incarnation and convey the Christian values of generosity, humility and peace.

In a world often dominated by consumerism, these figures remind us that Christmas is above all a celebration of faith and divine love. They unite Christian communities around the world while highlighting the richness and diversity of cultural traditions.