This book is about the meanings of Christmas. It makes for a fine Christmas present--written in popular, poetic style--and is a literary classic. This little dialogue shared by women, men and children on Christmas Eve is the jewel in the crown of Schleiermacher's theological writings. It features celebrations among close friends in a traditionally decorated home--stories told by four women, doctrinal interpretations offered by four men. All these events are shared in dialogue, accompanied by singing, activities, and expressions of two young children, and exchange of homemade gifts. Beautifully written and full of evocative images, it is in effect a drama, lending itself to being read aloud. For the first time the two original German editions (1806 and 1826) can be handily compared, though without interrupting smooth reading of the final edition from start to finish. It will serve as a brief piece for reflection by students from high school through graduate school.

Friedrich Schleiermacher (1768-1834) is widely reputed to be the father of modern theology. This means that the results of his intensive historical-critical examinations of Christian Scripture and tradition either have positively influenced or have had to be contended with by a very wide range of thinkers
Schleiermacher served as a pastor during his entire adult life. He was cofounder of the University of Berlin, established its famous theology department, and taught both theology and philosophy there.

Terrence N. Tice, the translator, is a world-renowned interpreter of Schleiermacher's life and works. He is Professor Emeritus of Philosophy at the University of Michigan and now teaches at Iliff School of Theology in Denver, Colorado. He has already translated numerous works by Schleiermacher. His newly revised editions of several other major works by Schleiermacher are to appear shortly, including a first-time presentation of all three editions (1799, 1806, 1921) ofOn Religion (Cascade Books).