COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA

OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

PROCLAMATION
CHRISTMAS DAY
December 25, 2015
WHEREAS, in the 18th century, Pennsylvanias German settlers mainly the
Moravian settlers of Bethlehem, Nazareth, and Lititz enthusiastically celebrated Christmas
and it is believed that Bethlehem had the first Christmas trees and nativity scenes; and
WHEREAS, Christmas is a historic celebration that, to many, commemorates the birth
of Jesus Christ and, each December, individuals celebrate and share unique religious,
culinary, and benevolent cultural and holiday traditions from attending church to sharing
Christmas cookies and a delightful family meal to stuffing stockings with gifts and singing
Christmas carols; and
WHEREAS, the most popular Christmas trees grown in Pennsylvania are the Douglas
fir and Frasier fir. These trees serve as a renewable and decorative resource for our state and
many will adorn houses and buildings across the Commonwealth this holiday season; and
WHEREAS, during this season bedecked with trees, gifts, lights and adornments of all
kinds, I encourage all Pennsylvanians to spend quality time with the family and friends, both
young and old, that you hold dear; and
WHEREAS, we, as Americans, carry on the sentiment of peace on earth and goodwill
toward men this Christmas. In the spirit of this holiday, we encourage Pennsylvanians to be
kind to one another and share the joy of the holiday spirit with all those around you.
THEREFORE, in recognition of a time-honored American tradition, I, TOM WOLF,
Governor of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, do hereby proclaim December 25, 2015, as
CHRISTMAS DAY. I wish all Pennsylvanians a Merry Christmas, and for a happy, healthy
holiday season to be bestowed on our Commonwealth and nation.
GIVEN under my hand and the Seal of
Governor, at the City of Harrisburg, on
fourteenth day of December in the Year of
Lord two thousand and fifteen, and of
Commonwealth the two hundred and fortieth.

TOM WOLF
Governor

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