Is "Merry Christmas" Having A Comeback?

Apparently, Mary and Jesus can still get people excited about the mail. A post circulating on X highlights this year’s Christian Christmas stamps from the United States Postal Service and Britain’s Royal Mail. One features the Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child. The other depicts the Holy Family beneath the Star of Bethlehem. The USPS stamp, released October 2 , features The Virgin and Child Enthroned, a Netherlandish painting dating to around 1500. Royal Mail’s collection, released November 3 , includes five designs by illustrator Rebecca Sutherland depicting scenes from the Nativity story. Of course, USPS has issued Madonna and Child stamps since 1966 . Christian imagery never entirely disappeared from Christmas. But the enthusiasm for it feels relevant to a broader conversation. After years of arguments over “Happy Holidays” versus “Merry Christmas,” there are signs people are craving a more profound meaning to Christmas. A December 2025 Research Co. survey found that 67% of Canadians preferred “Merry Christmas,” up five percentage points from the previous year, while preference for “Happy Holidays” fell six points to 18%. And that’s literally Canada. The interest extends beyond seasonal greetings. Evie writer Jaimee Marshall explored the renewed attraction to faith in “God Is Back And Gen Z Is Leading The Revival.” Her argument is that young people are looking for purpose, community, and moral direction after discovering the limits of politics, consumerism, and endless self-improvement. In NYC, Mass attendance has surged among young people , specifically in Dominican-run Catholic churches , which are more “traditional,” with Gregorian chant over modern-day jingles. There are signs people are craving a more profound meaning to Christmas. The ’90s are also having a comeback, and there’s something wholesome about films like Home Alone where the characters say “Merry Christmas.” “Happy Holidays,” frankly, just sounds odd. Especially considering Christmas is what most of the U.S. celebrates post-Thanksgiving. There’s nothing inherently hostile about wishing someone “Happy Holidays.” But “Merry Christmas” carries a particular story: a mother, a child, and the belief that God entered the world because He loved it. Perhaps that’s why these little stamps resonate. In a season that can feel like one enormous sales pitch , they offer something worth celebrating.