Religion is an integral part of life, with the various faith groups having different holidays and special events. The Christianity religion is one of the most widely celebrated, with people attending churches and celebrating various moments such as Christmas and Easter. Is there a Christianity Month, or a period dedicated to the religion’s practices?
This is a complex question that varies due to interpretation and geographical region. An immediate answer is “no”, however some organizations and churches have put together “Christianity Months,” combining religious activities over a set period. These months, for example, may focus on the birth and death of Jesus, the practice of prayer, and service to one’s neighbor. This type of organization of Christianity activities may happen within countries, as well as worldwide.
In the United States, for example, one of the organizations that has furthered the concept of Christian Month is the World Bible Society. In December of 2017, this worldwide non-profit organization introduced Joppa Ministries, a ten-day event focused on drawing attention to one’s spiritual life and practices. Joppa Ministries was designed to occur in April and involve different invitation-only prayer meetings, gospel events, and personalized Bible readings. It encourages a cult-like atmosphere that focuses on prayer.
In addition, the World Bible Society has established a World Christian Month which occurs in October. This month seeks to draw attention to the concerns of Christians around the world, and to bring them together in unity. This free event promotes individuals and churches joining together to celebrate the faith, giving back to the community, and helping other organizations in various ways.
The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has also established a Christianity Month. This event is celebrated in December, and includes reading and praying for 30 days, as well as launching a service project throughout the month. This type of intensive event allows for Christians to deepen their faith and discernment through reading the Bible, reflecting on the message, and prayer. The service project is focused on those in dire need, such as homeless persons, veterans, and victims of abuse.
Organizations dedicated to promoting the Christian faith at various levels can be found throughout the world. In Europe, for example, there is the Christianity Europe organization, which exists as an umbrella organization for national churches, non-governmental organizations, and church organizations within Europe. This organization promotes ecumenism and inter-religious dialogue, providing resources for ministers and pastors to further their understanding of Christian faith.
Organizations such as those mentioned above, with their respective Christianity Months, seek to engage the individual in meaningful practices, and draw members to their religions and their work. Certainly, such events may be helpful in focusing attention on the faith, but their practical effectiveness remains to be seen. Moreover, while they offer some religious events they may not be as effective as day-to-day practices of faith.
The Roots of Christianity Month
Christianity Month probably has its roots in the concept of a “Church Year”. This marks out yearly periods of discipline, celebration, and sorrow and requires many variables of activity. This concept has been held in practice since the 7th century and was in marked contrast to the pagan systems of that ancient time. And there is a need in believers to organize and mark days and nights, differentiating the time and devoting space for honoring the Holy Ones.
With innovation and developments in technology, the Church’s orbit of communication and protection grew larger, covering and gathering people together in common celebration of the religion. The perception of digital and TV programs also increased, which gave way to the advancement of special days observed with greater enthusiasm and awe. This method of religion marketing solidified the concept of an idea of “Christianity Month”, where the observance of specific religious traditions and principles were made public, holding the idea of connecting more closer with faith practice.
God’s Call vs. Human Pressure
The faith of Christianity has been rallying around the idea of human proximity and a savior’s love since centuries of time. However, in today’s materialistic world, people tend to forget their roots and laws in pursuit of the things that are emotionally rewarding. This is where a “Christianity Month” intervenes. The ability to observe and pay respects to our faith and beliefs keep us accountable and spirit-filled during a period of social and economic distress.
By dedicating time-specific commitments and activities to glorify God, it becomes easier to stay away from almost always downwards spiral of humanistic traits and perceptions. Human tendencies of competition and outdoing each other amidst insecurities become more manageable during such a special month. Christianity Month also serves to remind people of God’s magnificent power and His willingness to be a part of our lives.
Celebrating What We Have
God’s love for us is the single greatest blessing that one can ever receive. Christianity Month serves as an opportunity for individuals who are part of the faith to sincerely thank God for His long-time gifts. Celebrations in the form of prayers, sermons, praises, and offerings are made during this period of time, recognizing that God is never-ending source of love and acceptance no matter the circumstances.
The idea of giving thanks is not only recognized by activities that are part of the month, but is also encouraged through individual behaviors. Good deeds and helping others even in the smallest of ways represent our humble gratitude towards a God we cannot see. Every blessing received big or small no matter the religion or culture can be celebrated this way and should be.
Christianity Month as a Global Phenomenon
It has become increasingly important to observe Christianity Month with global individuals joining in. More specifically, the rise of social media video streaming platforms such as YouTube, and the rise of digital platforms such as streaming audio services, have given wider access to individuals to access teachings and transmissions of church services and other Christian-related events.
The presence of global audio and video platforms makes it easier to access and observe events, regardless of geography. Countless churches and individuals from around the world are now participating in events that are part of Christianity Month, connecting with people they would not have been able to connect to a few years ago.
Recapturing the Presence of God
In a world that is filled with technology, materialism, and economic insecurity, Christianity Month allows individuals to take some much needed time for themselves. It serves as an opportunity for believers to regain the peace and tranquility of re-discovering God. While Christian Month may require extra commitment and attention, it also serves to understand the teachings and promises of God, and how to use them to bring benefit to the world.
Through such a month, individuals can find purpose and value in renewing faith-building practices and rediscover their spirit-filled calling of providing love and kindness to all regardless of their race, ethnicity, or economic status. In this way, individuals are reminded of God’s unconditional love, and always reminder of his grace, during happy and prosperous times as well as during difficult and challenging times.
