The word Christmas comes from the Old English term Cristes mæsse, meaning “Christ’s Mass.” It originated in the early Middle Ages, around the 11th century, as a term to describe the religious service (or “mass”) held to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ.
- Cristes refers to Christ, derived from the Greek word Christos, meaning “the anointed one,” which translates the Hebrew term Messiah.
- Mæsse is derived from the Latin word missa, which was used in the early Church to refer to the Eucharistic service, particularly its conclusion when the congregation was “dismissed” (from the Latin mittere, “to send”).
Thus, Christmas literally means “the mass or celebration of Christ.”
Historical Development of the Term
The term became widely associated with the annual feast on December 25, designated by the Western Church to celebrate Christ’s birth. Over time, “mass” in this context became less associated with its liturgical roots and more synonymous with the holiday itself.
Implications in Light of the Puritan Perspective
From a Puritan or Reformed theological standpoint, the term underscores its Roman Catholic liturgical origins. This connection contributed to the Puritan rejection of Christmas as a holiday, as they sought to distance themselves from practices they viewed as rooted in Catholic tradition rather than biblical prescription.
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