The Editor, Sir:

I wish to direct attention to some historical records concerning Christmas which I have never seen mentioned by your commentators over the years.

There is historical evidence that the birth of Christ was being celebrated in Alexandria 200 A.D.

In Jerusalem, the Nativity and the Epiphany were celebrated together

St. Cyril, Bishop of Jerusalem, wrote to Pope Julius 1 requesting him to assign the true date of the Nativity (birth of Christ) from the census documents brought to Rome by Titus.

The records read:For the first coming of our Lord in the flesh in whichHe has been begotten, in Bethlehem, took place 25 December, the fourth day, in the reign of Augustus the 42nd year and in the year 5500 from Adam. And He suffered in His 33rd year, March 25, the parasceve, in the 18th year of Tiberius Caesar, during the consulate of Rufus and Rubellio.

The word Christmas was translated into Old English in 1038 as Cristes Maesse meaning 'The Mass of Christ.' ( Source: New Advent.com)

The etymological and other exercises engaged in have no bearing on the Universal Church which is always focused on Christ. The Church is the 'Pillar and Foundation of Truth' - I Tim. 3:15.

I am, etc.,

A. JAMES

alvalj@anngel.com

15 Sundown Crescent

Kingston 10