| The Christmas story as recorded in the Bible, in all its simplicity and beauty and without the trappings of legend and folklore, is very much a part of Swiss family tradition. In this small nation where many Christian sects live in harmony, with the utmost concern for good government, spotless surroundings, and the importance of education, the account of Christ's birth is read aloud to the family on Christmas Eve. Many unusual customs associated with farm life are still enjoyed. On Christmas Eve, either mother or grandmother searches for the best onion to be found in the vegetable closet. The onion is cut in two parts, twelve layers are peeled off, one for each of the twelve months of the year, and each is filled with salt. |
