Quote:
Originally Posted by Igzy
I understand having a problem with pagan influences that change the nature of the faith, such as worship of Mary, prayer to the dead, working for salvation, penance, etc.
But Christmas embodies none of those things. How do trees and nativity scenes and snowmen hurt or corrupt the Christian message? I don't see how you can make the case they do.
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Hmm, well, ok Igzy. I was content with being a merry gentleman on this matter but I see such a compromise on my part was unwise. Perhaps live and let live is not possible on this much celebrated festival. Lesson learned.
The basic messages of this celebration are pagan in origin. The timing of the winter solstice, the Madonna and Child, the veneration and celebration of the sun god (Natalie Solis Invincti),festivities in worship of Saturn, the Christmas tree, the yuletide log, and Santa Claus (Odin) to name some of the main principles. If more examples are demanded we might also throw Rudolph under the bus, err, rather, under the magical flying sleigh.
Slapping a Christian wrapper on this stuff doesn't really change the content. Does it?
I always liked the way Linus delivered that speech but we know what's really going on.
Drake