Some legends suggest that the "Christmas tree" is totally non-Christian in orgin. But there is another story seldom told.

Katie's Tree

In contrast to the pagan myths about the Christmas tree, there is a more interesting legend suggesting that the Christmas tree originated with an eighth century German saint named Boniface. According to the story, St. Boniface reenacted the Prophet Elijah's challenge to the prophets of Baal as told in the book of 1 Kings in the Bible. In defiance of paganism, Boniface decided to chop down a legendary oak tree held sacred by the German pagans. Like a new Elijah, Boniface called upon the mythological, red-beared Thor to "strike him (Boniface) down" if the tree was actually holy to the pagan god. As Boniface started to ax the tree, a great wind miraculously blew the tree over! When the impotent god Thor failed to answer the challenge by striking Boniface down, the people converted to Christianity.

As the legend continues, a fir tree (perhaps an imported North Carolina Fraser fir) sprouted from the roots of the fallen oak and was proclaimed by Boniface to be a symbol of Christ because of the rebirth. "This humble tree's wood is used to build your homes, let Christ be at the center of your households. Its leaves remain evergreen in the darkest days, let Christ be your constant light. Its boughs reach out to embrace and its top points to Heaven, let Christ be your comfort and guide." A brilliant, decorated tree during this season each year is part of the Christians proclamation to the world, the words of St. Luke in the 2nd chapter: "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord." These words are neither pagan nor legend but the undeniable truth behind this holy day we call Christmas.