Amish Christmas is quiet. No tree (pagan symbol). No gifts (consumerism). No 'Jingle Bells' (entertainment). There is: family, food, hymns.

Which Hymns

From Ausbund — about Christ's birth. Slow as always. Plus German Christmas chorales: 'Stille Nacht' (Silent Night) is sung, but slower than in regular churches.

Evening

Family gathers by the stove. Father reads Luke 2:1-20. Mom sings — quietly, for the children. Children receive one gift: practical (knife, faceless doll, rolling pin). Sing together. Go to bed early. Tomorrow — an ordinary day.