Christmas and New Year

Religious, social and family life of people from all over the world is imbued with Christmas holidays. Christmas customs speak of humanity. It is a time when human relationships are seen in a different light. Through greeting cards, giving of presents and reconciliation among people the faith is being renewed as well as the belief that there is no evil in giving birth to a child in a stable if it can count on the love of its parents. At Christmas time the ancient world of shepherds, wise men, angels, the crib and guiding star is brought to life, but we are also reminded of the cruel reality and uncertainty in which little Jesus, Mary and Joseph found themselves surrounded by. Christmas holidays are an expression of spiritual needs for comfort and human closeness. In the light of Christmas Christian duties are seen as constant and restless efforts to promote universal human values. Christmas is not only about having a big feast, but it is also a time of solidarity and understanding. On the day of St. Barbara and St. Lucy, the 4th of December, wheat is being sowed as a Christmas decoration for the whole house and the table. On the same day the Croatian Post Ltd. Mostar has issued in Christmas spirit a commemorative stamps "Christmas 2005" as its contribution to the well-wishing, giving of presents and human reconciliation.