More than 90% of Americans celebrate Christmas, including a majority of agnostics and atheists, according to a new LifeWay Research study. Even so, not all agree on the most important reason for the season. Ed Stetzer, president of LifeWay Research, said, “There’s no question that Americans celebrate the Christmas holiday…but it typically revolves around family. Christ-centered elements are not as common…for many in our culture, family is the reason for the season.” 81% of Americans put “family first” at Christmas, saying family traditions were the most important part of the holiday. 89% give gifts to family members. More than three-quarters of Americans acknowledge that Jesus is the reason for the season, but only 28% read the Christmas story from the Bible at this time of year. “Americans give a nod to Jesus at Christmas but spend most of the season pleasing their eyes, ears, and taste buds with decorations, music and meals,” said Scott McConnell, director of LifeWay Research. “Many celebrate Christmas the way most celebrate Halloween—the fun traditions without sharing the religious significance.” Even so, nearly half of all Americans will attend a Christmas-oriented church service this season, including a small percentage of agnostics, atheists and those of other religions.
