Honoring Our Diversity Through Faith Traditions
Katarina N. Bergh, MDiv, staff chaplain, Spiritual Care Services
The diversity of our staff, patients, their families and our local community makes us stronger. Each day, we strive to ensure a caring environment where everyone feels welcome and included. December is a month of richly varied celebrations and observances. As we gather together this December, let us be mindful of the faith and heritage traditions that make us so diverse.
Mawlid an-Nabi
A Muslim tradition commemorating the birthday of the prophet Mohammed in 570 CE; not universally observed.
Nov. 30 – Dec. 1
Bodhi Day or Rohatsu
A Buddhist holiday celebrating the enlightenment of the Buddha; observed in Zen Buddhism.
Dec. 8
Hanukkah
A Jewish festival of lights and feasting commemorating the rededication of the Temple in 167 BCE.
Dec. 12-20
Yule
A Wiccan and Pagan holiday celebrating the winter solstice.
Dec. 21
Christmas
A Christian celebration commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ.
Dec. 25
Feast of the Nativity
An Orthodox Christian tradition celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.
Dec. 25
Zartosht No-Diso
A Zoroastrian tradition commemorating the death of the prophet Zarathustra.
Dec. 26
This December, Spiritual Care Services will be lighting menorahs and offering latkes in observance of Hanukkah and will hold a Roman Catholic Mass on Christmas Day. We welcome suggestions for celebrations throughout the year. Please send your suggestions to bwhchaplaincy@bwh.harvard.edu.
May peace and healing prevail among all people.