The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

It is the custom in Christian families to put
one lighted candle in the window on Christmas Eve
to symbolize that Mary and Joseph would be welcome
in your home if they were searching
for a place to stay like they were so long ago.

Where learned: NEW JERSEY ; Penns Grove

James Callow Keyword(s): HOSPITALITY

Subject headings:

686 Properties attributed to specific numbers or numerals individually.
CUSTOM FESTIVAL -- December 24 Christmas Eve
CUSTOM FESTIVAL -- December 25 Christmas Also see F642, below.
CUSTOM FESTIVAL -- December 21 solstice to March 20 Lights and candles
BELIEF -- Street Trip Relations between relatives, friends, host and guest Social class Rank

Date learned: 00001980S