In response to Bob Welch’s letter regarding Halloween, there is little evidence to suggest that it takes anything from the pagan festival of Samhain, but rather a celebration of All Hallows’ Evening.
The date was moved in 835AD to coincide with Samhain, but it was firmly established as a Christian festival.
It is certainly not unique for Christian celebration days to be moved to coincide with existing festivals, sometimes for practical reasons, not least to aid in the adoption of Christian dogma.
December 25 was accepted as the birth of Christ around 273AD, as the date already held two festivals – Natalis Solis Invicti, the birth of the unconquered sun, and the birthday of Mithras, which was popular with Roman soldiers.
Would Mr Welch suggest that we also do not celebrate on Christmas Day for fear of involvement in sun worship?
WA Willis
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