December 21-27: Christmas

Written By Center for Latter-day Saint Arts

"We Have Waited for Him, and He Will Save Us"

Christians around the world travel to local houses of worship during the Christmas season, as well as make pilgrimages to Bethlehem and other iconic locations in Christian history. They are drawn to the pagentry, the music, the stories of the birth of Jesus in ways that surpass, in many cases, their commitment to God during the rest of the year. Latter-day Saint chapels are functional spaces rather than elaborate, cathedral-like monuments. And yet, Latter-day Saint art includes such buildings. In 1835, the Episcopal paris of St. Bartholomew's Church was established. Located originally in the lower part of Manhattan, New York, it moved to Park Avenue in 1918. It is notable for having the city's largest pipe organ, and it features an extravagant mosaic work by Hildreth Meière. During its design and installation, LDS artist Lynn Fausett worked with Meière on this and other projects. Here is a contemporary photograph of St. Bart's, as it is commonly called, and a vintage photograph of Fausett at work.

Art has been used for many purposes throughout history. One of the most beautiful and impactful is to edify and bring people closer to Christ. Paintings adorn homes. Sculptures stand as momuments to the heavens. Stained glass paint halls of worship in beautiful light. Music and dance refuse to leave us unnmoved. This season, travel home, cook holiday feasts, enjoy your special traditions, and give gifts to those you love. As you study the Christmas story and rejoice in the spirit of this Christmas season, make room to appreciate the art and life you see all around. Merry Christmas.

Gospel Questions

1. When was the last time you rejoiced? How did you act? What does it look like when you rejoice in your redeemer?

2. Jesus is referred to by many different titles. Out in the world we may go by a nickname or give them to others. What is your favorite title or Christ? If you were to give a nickname to Jesus what would it be?

3. There are a lot of diverse and unique Christmas traditions. What is a tradition you'd like to begin this year?

For Children and Youth

Hi. Christmas is a special time of year where we get to decorate and give gifts. We do these things to celebrate the birth of our Savior.

1. How does the Christmas season remind you of Jesus?

More from the Art Companion

2026 Come, Follow Me Art Companion Old Testament
December 21-27: Christmas
December 21-27: Christmas

Christians around the world travel to local houses of worship during the Christmas season, as well as make pilgrimages to Bethlehem and other iconic locations in Christian history. They are drawn to the pagentry, the music, the stories of the birth of Jesus in ways that surpass, in many cases, their commitment to God during the rest of the year. Latter-day Saint chapels are functional spaces rather than elaborate, cathedral-like monuments.

December 14-20: Malachi
December 14-20: Malachi

In the book of Malachi the prophet Malachi delivers God’s message to a people who have grown spiritually careless and indifferent. God confronts the priests for offering improper sacrifices and failing to honor Him with sincerity. The Lord challenges the peoples unfaithfulness in relationships, injustice, and withholding tithes.

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December 7-13: Haggai 1-2; Zechariah 1-4; 7-14

In Haggai, the prophet Haggai urges the people to stop neglecting God’s temple and prioritize rebuilding it. Promising that God will abide with them and bless their efforts. He encourages leaders like Zerubbabel and Joshua, assuring them that their work has lasting significance despite humble beginnings. In Zechariah, the prophet Zechariah receives a series of visions that symbolize God’s Spirit empowering the rebuilding of the temple.

November 30-December 6: Micah; Nahum; Habakkuk; Zephaniah
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The book of Micah, confronts Israel and Judah for their corruption and false leadership, but it promises future restoration and the coming of a ruler from Bethlehem. Nahum focuses on the downfall of Nineveh, declaring that God will bring justice against its cruelty and oppression. Habakkuk records a dialogue between the prophet Habakkuk and God, where he questions why injustice is allowed, and God responds that justice will come in time.

Center for Latter-day Saint Arts
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December 14-20: Malachi