Christmas around the World

In Bethlehem where Christ was born;
The little church with flags; adorned.
The pilgrims come from far and near
To worship Him with holy fear.

An effigy of holy child
Is carried through the church's aisle.
Then down the winding stairs they go
To find a star in the grotto.

Our friends in France display a crèche;
With "santons" of the very best.
Buche de noel-"Christmas Log-"
Enjoyed much as pat de foie gras.

Pere Noel brings the children's gifts-
As does his friend who is quite strict.
Adults exchange gifts New Year's Day;
Each year-Christmas fairs in Marseille.

In Holland, St. Nick sails from Spain
(Though, Sinterklaas is his Dutch name.)
Shoes are filled with food for his horse;
Then replaced with gifts, in due course.

The processions in Mexico
Tell how a virgin had to go
From house to house to find a room-
To birth the child in her womb.

In Greece, the patron saint of tars-
St. Nick's face sweats from work so hard.
Greek ships will never leave the port
Unless his image is on board.

On Christmas Eve, Greek children go
From house to house to share a glow.
Their little voices loud and strong-
With good wishes and Christmas song.

Down Under; shopping, surf and sun
Say the holiday has begun.
Snow for Aussies is out of reach;
For them it's Christmas on the beach.

Will "Swag man" take on Santa's job?
Will all the Aussie children sob
If their gifts come in four-wheel drive
And not from a sleigh in the sky?

Christmas all around the world
Is different in its pomp and whirl.
But children in all ways and drifts
Look for the man who brings the gifts.

Copyright © 11/22/05
by Michelle.