Burning of the yule log began as a very pagan tradition. In celebration of the sun, Celts, Teutons and Druids burned massive logs during winter ceremonies. The burning log symbolized the coming of warmer, sunnier days. Often a piece of the previous year’s log was used to light the new log, symbolizing continuity. In later years, church officials adapted this ritual, giving it spiritual significance by having it represent the light of Heaven. Yule logs were lit on Christmas Eve and left burning through the 12 days of Christmas. Today, for most people, the yule log has become an emblem of the past. The most common yule log is the Yule Log cake made to look like a traditional log.