Christmas is a beautiful season, a season of goodwill and love to all persons, a time of sparkling lights, extravagant decor, melodious music, good food; indeed it is a wonderful family and religious event.
It is a joyous celebration for every Christian denomination, and it has been that way over the years.
Popular modern customs of the holiday include gift-giving, music, an exchange of greetings cards, church ceremonies, a special meal, and the display of various decorations; including Christmas trees, lights, garlands, mistletoe, nativity scenes, and holly.
In addition, Father Christmas - known as Santa Claus in some areas - is a popular mythological figure in many countries associated with the bringing of gifts for children.
But for all of this, Christmas is a religious celebration. It is the day Christians throughout the world celebrate the birth of Jesus. Churches in our communities have been holding special services leading up to this day, and many welcomed the holiday with early morning services this morning.
Christmas is one of two Christian holidays that are universally celebrated, this one for the virgin birth of Jesus in the manger, the other for crucifixion and resurrection. Of the two, Christmas has become far more broad-based.
Just like in other countries, this festive period also mark by heightened economic activity among both Christians and even non-Christians.
The Management and Staff of The Point Newspaper therefore wish you a Merry Christmas in advance.
Long live The Gambia!