‘And when the time called Christmas came, while others were feasting and sporting themselves I would have gone and looked out poor widows from house to house, and have given them some money.’

George Fox, writing in his Journal, in a slightly disparaging manner about Christmas. It is a season of complexity for British Quakers, offending their sense of simplicity and justice, and cutting across their belief that one day above others should not be celebrated.

Many modern Quakers do celebrate Christmas, however, even with misgivings, as is evident from our contributors in this issue. Around the world, Quakers see the season differently. Some are indifferent, others ecstatic.

The British general public notice our sobriety, witnessed in the recent Quaker Quest poll, which indicated a perception of Quakers as ‘purists’. They may have this image bolstered by encountering Quakers who ignore the season of goodwill and jollity. Christina Saarinen of Finland Yearly Meeting appears to have worked out a Quaker-shaped strategy – why not just accept the celebrations as part of a national tradition? The spiritual dimension can be lived every day (Celebration or challenge?).

One of my brothers used to say: ‘if you can’t enjoy Christmas you’re a Scrooge.’ Sadly, many people have good reasons not to be happy at Christmas, and many of us have just seen one too many festive seasons, whether we’re Quakers or not. Yet my brother’s words have a meaning. So, casting aside principled reservations, may I wish all our readers a heart-warming time and may your troubles be few. As Peggy Lee would say during a concert: ‘you’re a wonderful audience.’