Interesting thread,

I haven't read every post but in my opinion celebrating the birth of our Savior, no matter when the actual date of his birth is a good thing. Mixing elements of commercial Christmas is where I become uncomfortable. AS long as the focus is kept on the birth of Jesus I'm on board. I'm not really into the tree but I'm not sure if it is dishonoring to Jesus to have one - (I read the origins of the Christmas tree somewhere - does it have to do with the Winter Solctice?). I also think exchanging gifts are ok but it shouldn't go overboard.

As for Hislop's book - it's a mess. It's all over the place and I don't know how much credence I can give it.

Woodrow wrote in his review that the Bible is the best evidence against RCC tradition and I agree. But unfortunately there are alot of anti-Catholic bias & propaganda out there that take away from the legit arguments against the RCC.

The mercy of God is necessary not only when a person repents, but even to lead him to repent, Augustine