The tradition of placing lights in and around windows and houses began in the Middle Ages. These lights, which began as candles, becames a symbol of Christ, the Light of the world. These lights held a two-fold purpose, to guide the Christ Child to Christian homes so that He would leave His blessing on the house and presents for those inside, and to be a sign to weary travelers that they would find a welcome in that house.

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The Customs of Christmas is a family-friendly site.