there would be, but it wouldnt be like what we do today. the whole getting a tree out and having presents has nothing to do with religion whatsoever.
"The end of December was a perfect time for celebration in most areas of Europe. At that time of year, most cattle were slaughtered so they would not have to be fed during the winter. For many, it was the only time of year when they had a supply of fresh meat. In addition, most wine and beer made during the year was finally fermented and ready for drinking". "Also around the time of the winter solstice, Romans observed Juvenalia, a feast honoring the children of Rome. In addition, members of the upper classes often celebrated the birthday of Mithra, the god of the unconquerable sun, on December 25. It was believed that Mithra, an infant god, was born of a rock. For some Romans, Mithra’s birthday was the most sacred day of the year. In the early years of Christianity, Easter was the main holiday; the birth of Jesus was not celebrated." From http://www.thehistoryofchristmas.com/ch/before_christ.htm All be it im not to sure how reliable the source is.
I'm not talking about the mechanics of Christmas! - However, I do believe that,, at the first Christmas there were at least 3 presents ( maybe not a tree ) In answer to your suggestion - I would refer you to the first syllable of the word Christmas - can you explain THAT in a different, sensible context to what the world understands ?
Don't really see why it makes such a difference to anybody quite frankly. Some people see Xmas a a time to spend with families and are not remotely religious. Some do the same family stuff but add all the churchy bit onto it. As long as you're happy with what you do and it's not hurting anyonre what's the big deal?
If you start a thread asking for opinions, I don't really think you should be telling people how they should or should not construct their replies. Pontificating to people isn't a good look for you, pal.
I'm terribly sorry that you have not noticed that 'non' believers ( and they are perfectly entitled to that opinion ) continue to be disrespectful in the construction of their reply. This aspect is unnecessary in making their point - hence the comments in my reply - where I gave praise ( compliment ) up to the point where there was an unnecessary ' dig ' at religion.
I'm not going to go through the whole thread etc. If you have read my individual replies, you should be able to ascertain that they have been fairly dignified. To me, it seems that whenever any article relates to God or religions are debated, that all too quickly, any contributors who claim to be athiests descent to ridicule - much more so than the ' believers ' - who are not without their sinners here on GC. Just for once it would make a refreshing change to have a thread on God / religion without the inevitable bad language- which doesn't contribute any positivity to respective arguement. ( now I'm going to watch the footy on Sky )
As a point of fact on this thread, you are correct. You will probably have read my reply to ER. I was careful to concede the point in my last reply to yourself. - BUT - I did also state it is athiests ( much more so ) who instigate / use ridicule towards those who believe in God. In this example I believe that ER has been the exception that generally proves the rule ( in the many ' religion ' threads we've had lately .)
Most of the religious themed threads on here are started by the same person, spouting the same tired rhetoric and failing to learn anything at all during the duration of them. They've gone on for dozens of pages. The hostility is towards him and not the religious in general, which is why this article didn't receive any.
Quiet now, reverend ramsey is speaking Christmas is the time for recollections â remembering the beautiful times we had with our loved ones, remembering some funny incidents that happened on Christmas Eve and so on. More than all, itâs the time we remember the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. It would have been a very different scenario (a horrible scenario, plainly speaking) if Jesus had not shown up on the scene. For years prophets prophesied about the Messiahâs birth. And He came â at the right time. As pictured in the Scriptures, Christâs birth was awesome. Talk about angels appearing, heavenly choir, supernatural star, top officials from far off countries coming just to worship the âbaby Kingâ â it was just extraordinarily awesome! And He changed the course of world history like no one else! He ushered in a new world into our world. Suddenly there was healing, miracles, wonders, supernatural provision, even the dead being raised to life. And on the cross, He opened the inimitably grand way to heaven and life without limits. And His resurrection literally tore off the old, dead principles of religion. Thatâs the reason for this magnificent celebration of the season! but now, it has become more of a commercial holiday, you cant call people hypocrites for taking part yet not beleiving in religion, because it is less about religion now more than ever.
Excuse me for saying so, but you're being overly precious about the way people are responding - frankly i'm surprised at the restraint being shown by most. You remind me of a poor man's Alan Titchmarsh. This isn't daytime television you know. (Make sure you get some extra mileage out of my grammar error )
Joker Your latest reply to me is exactly the sort of thing about which I write. On this occasion I won't disagree with you, but if I had done so, I would still appreciate that you have not just ramdonly told me to " F*ck off. " Thank you.
