True enough, Vic. Local "celebrations' took on much local flavour that has no warrant is scripture. That some local observances have similarities to other folk celebrations common to that people is to be expected. However that is a long way from proving that there is a direct causation.

An analogous situation would be to assert a deep symbolism to the use of candles in medieval churches. At the same time to ignore other more plausable explanations, such as a need for light prior to electricity. Then make the observation (true as it is) that modern north American families often celebrate b-days with candles on a cake.

Then you have (in Hislops world) *proof* that modern families are crypto-catholics who secretly use the candles for the mystical purposes previously asserted.

He has almost zero credibility. To cite him as a source reduces what ever point was being made to the same level. IMO.

__________________
Kevin Rogers
Sovereign Community Church, PCA
Moncton NB