A question of etiquette I would particularly like the reaction of Jews in this forum, especially members?

answer: Probably not at all. *(edited - cold fuzzy mind) When someone wishes me a Merry Christmas, I usually respond with "you too!"

People being polite and considerate usually don't offend. We understand that it's a common sentiment and phrase during December.

I don't know anyone who would be offended & not take it as a generic statement for many people.

However, in business it's best not to offend or minimize anyone & there are other non-Christians besides Jews. I'd stick to the neutral "Happy Holidays" in closing emails since one can assume people at least acknowledge the US used calendar changes years.

I worked for a large company that ran an unusually progressive policy on rights long before others came on board. There was no use of Christmas or anything specific to any religious on their official actions, no decorations in the office officially either. Though they had a great holidays show put on for kids of workers with a cute neutral present that was memorable for years. (They were great on having mixes of everyone hired - which felt good to be around.)

Later I went to a tiny company where wreaths were put on every door, the Christmas tree in the lobby was huge & I got dirty looks for adding a small menorah, & the holiday party was called Christmas & featured songs about Jesus. I was uncomfortable, felt way out of place, unwelcome, & on some level I didn't want to think about - offended that I was "chopped liver" to the point they knew but didn't care that not everyone was Christian. I gave the Christmas tree ornament present of some Christmas-specific-scene away to goodwill a few days later. At least let someone enjoy it.

Now on personal note, I send Merry Christmas cards to my Christian friends. I accept them with pleasure from them too (I'd bet that's the box of cards they bought.) Actually I accept too from business with the postive message intended.

So while I assume people will tend to not think about it & won't take it personally if Merry Christmas is used for generic stuff for the season, if it goes past that it's best to be neutral, particularly within the company.

Probably not. I love how you generalize an entire religion of people based on the last syllable of some random persons name, yet you were so sincere and polite about it. Normally I'd have a witty retort, but wow, that was just so cute in an awkward way. :) Merry Christmahannukwanzmadonolstice!

I didn't think so at all until I moved to Manhattan, where about half my acquaintances happened to be Jewish. Most of them aren't offended at all, but I like to think, what if they said Happy Hannukah on all their emails? I usually say something about having a joyous holiday season as that covers just about everyone and then you don't have to worry about it. And I'm a Christian who loves Christmas.

I wouldn't worry too much about it now, but perhaps for safety's sake (since you'll likely one day meet someone that takes etiquette WAY too seriously) start saying "Happy Holidays'', especially in a business setting. You're not denouncing your own faith, but at least you won't get in trouble for 'offending someone'.

Yay political correctness.

I will star your question for my Jewish contacts and friends. Peace to you!