According to legend, at least one bird played an important role in the very first Christmas. It is said that a small brown bird was present in the stable along with the other animals when Mary and Joseph took shelter there. The bird sensed that it was indeed a wonderful and special occasion. Later as the Holy Family lay sleeping, it noticed the fire dying and swooped down in hopes of reviving the smoldering coals. Bravely it flapped its wings. As the flames singed the bird's breast, coloring it a deep red. Despite the heat, the small bird kept working tirelessly throughout the night to keep the Babe in the manger warm. Since then, the bird, known to us as the robin, has worn a red breast - a symbol of its gift.