Christmas decorations light up the streets in Oviedo, Spain.
Patmos, a Korean Christian culture and mission organization, conducted a study called "Perspectives on Christmas" with 199 lay people, the results which were released on November 28. Patmos has been conducting this study from August 8 to September 5 by posting survey questions on major, widely-used websites. As the Christmas season approaches, Christmas trees and lights are becoming more and more visible on the streets. And though Christmas comes again each year, people of all ages, children and adults alike, eagerly await the holiday. What is it exactly that people think of when thinking of Christmas, and what are some ways that they would like to celebrate?
When thinking of "Christmas," 33 percent said they think of Christmas carols; 22 percent said they think of Santa Claus and presents; 21 percent said they think of Christmas parties; 17 percent said they think of Jesus; 7 percent said they think of concerts and other performances; and 1 percent said "Other'.
18 percent of study participants said that when thinking of the meaning of Christmas, they consider it to be "a worldwide celebration." 24 percent consider it as a time to help those in need. 8 percent consider it to be to celebrate Jesus' birthday, and 50 percent consider it a holiday to spend meaningful time with families and friends.
When asked what participants do on Christmas day, 15 percent said they spend time with family, 5 percent said they participate in community service, and 22 percent said they go on dates with their significant others. The answers "participate in church activities," and "go to see performances," each had 29 percent of the participants' votes.
