I was thinking about this thread this morning. I was thinking that it is pretty indisputable that the early Church merged the celebration of the birth of Christ onto older, pagan holidays, or in any event let’s accept that for the sake of argument. (I think someone on this thread did dispute it but I don’t know if they had a link, if they did I didn’t read it - though I might yet I suppose - in any case I’m no expert!) Likewise the whole St. Nicholas/Santa Clause thing is very convoluted and different in this Country than in others. It also happens that in Puerto Rico and maybe other Latin American places the Feast of the 3 Kings is the big day, at least for presents.
So, rather than being a solemn religious holiday (like Easter or Yom Kippur for the Jews) Christmas is kind of a mish-mosh.
But that doesn’t bother me. I’m glad we have this ancient tradition of celebration in the early days of winter.
Yes, I think we should keep focus on the religious aspects of the holiday, it annoys me no end that people keep trying to erase the Christian parts of our culture and history. But to me the other things are important too.
It’s all a lot less silly than the Easter bunny!
PS- LOL @ Lay’s Potato chips!
InDEED!!
(But wait'll the pagans find out!)
Thank you for this reply. I didn’t know that apparently every Christmas, someone posts something similar on here. I’ve obviously ruffled a few feathers. I just want to say, if people are aware of the pagan traditions and still think it’s ok to celebrate Christmas, go ahead. I don’t look down on those who do. After all, I did for years as well, until I had an epiphany. I hope other Christians will come to realize the truth about Christmas, and we will see some changes. God Bless!