Question

Katherine grew up attending private Catholic schools. Each year at Christmas, she and her classmates decorated a tree in school and did the same at home. For Katherine's classmates and family, the tree decorating was a _________ event.

Answer 1

Katherine and her classmates' tree decorating is a tradition that crosses religious lines to become a cultural celebration, with Christmas trees observed as festive symbols even in non-Christian settings.

Step-by-step explanation:

For Katherine's classmates and family, the tree decorating was a tradition event. The act of decorating a Christmas tree has transcended its religious origins to become part of a wider cultural celebration. In the US, this tradition is evident even in public and profane spaces such as shopping malls. Religious holidays often transform these spaces into quasi-religious ones, making figures like Santa Claus universally recognized.

The history of Christmas tree decoration does not only belong to the Christian tradition but has been integrated into various cultures and regions, including non-Christian societies, emphasizing how cultural practices can evolve and be adopted by diverse groups for celebration. For example, in the Soviet Union, New Year trees became a symbol of celebration and were encouraged by government officials. Thus, the decoration of a Christmas tree has become both a personal familial ritual and a widespread public practice.

Answer 2

Answer: Katherine grew up attending private Catholic schools. Each year at Christmas, she and her classmates decorated a tree in school and did the same at home. For Katherine's classmates and family, the tree decorating was a cultural event.

Explanation: Cultural events are related to a specific culture; events that are representative of a culture (may be related to music, art or other similar things).