Experiencing Filipino Christmas Traditions in Our Impact Class by Mrs. Ginger Lambert
In our recent second grade Impact class, we embarked on a joyful exploration of how people in the Philippines celebrate Christmas. This special lesson became even more meaningful when we had the privilege of hearing firsthand experiences from one of our second grader’s family members. Kierlyn’s mom, Mrs. Fenton, and her sister Jocelyn, a ninth grader, shared their stories after returning from a multiple-week trip to the Philippines, where they celebrated their grandmother’s 100th birthday. They brought back a wonderful piece of Filipino culture for us to experience firsthand.
Mrs. Fenton gifted me a stunning handmade nativity scene from the Philippines, which now holds a cherished spot in my growing collection of nativities from around the world. She also brought popular Filipino snacks for our class to enjoy during a lively Philippine Christmas party. The students were thrilled to sample the treats as we immersed ourselves in the richness of Filipino traditions. We played games, sang Christmas carols, and even created our own parols, the traditional Filipino lanterns that symbolize hope and light during the Christmas season. The classroom was filled with excitement as the students crafted their colorful lanterns, each one uniquely beautiful and meaningful.
One of the most fascinating aspects we learned is how Christmas in the Philippines stretches across four months—beginning in September and lasting through December. These “ber months” are a time of joyous festivities, filled with music, decorations, and a profound focus on the Nativity story, which lies at the heart of their celebrations. This extended Christmas season made a big impression on all of us, especially me. As someone who loves Christmas, I think the Philippines might just be my new favorite country!
This lesson beautifully aligned with the mission of our Impact program. Impact Education challenges and equips students to become servant leaders who will impact their world for Jesus Christ. This is accomplished by giving students across all grade levels the tools and opportunities to know and mature in Christ through service. Our program partners with Bible classes and weekly chapel services to prepare students to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Through discipleship inside and outside the classroom, students are taught about God’s character, His love for all people, and our role in serving and praying for a world with needs.
For our elementary students, Impact emphasizes God’s global mission through engaging activities like games, projects, and creative learning exercises. These tools not only foster cultural awareness but also equip students to love their neighbors, develop compassion and leadership skills, and discern their world through the lens of the Bible. This particular lesson on Filipino Christmas traditions exemplified these objectives, helping students understand prayer and service as powerful tools of Christianity. It also encouraged them to look outward, building a sense of community within their classrooms and beyond.
In class, we also took time to compare Filipino Christmas traditions with our own. Through this activity, we discovered both similarities and differences, broadening our perspectives and deepening our appreciation for global diversity. From the bright and cheerful parols to the emphasis on family, faith, and community, Filipino Christmas traditions taught us so much about the joy of celebrating together.
Learning about other cultures is a vital part of helping our students develop a global mindset and appreciate the diversity of the amazing people groups around the world. It’s a wonderful reminder that God’s love transcends borders. He sent His Son for all of us, no matter where we’re from or how we celebrate. This special lesson left an indelible mark on our hearts, and I am grateful for the opportunity to celebrate the beauty of Filipino Christmas traditions with my students.
For more stories and updates about the Impact program, be sure to visit “Ginger’s Journal” at https://gingersjournal.wordpress.com/.