Category Archives: Christianity

Easter Etymology: Why is Easter called Easter?

When we looked at the origins of Christmas traditions, we discovered that some Christian traditions have pagan origins. So perhaps it is not too surprising that Christian and pagan elements also blended together to create the celebration of Easter. In … Continue reading

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Symbols of Christmas: The Story of Christmas Lights

One of the prettiest things that can be seen in the Christmas season is the beautiful array of lights adorning trees, street lamps and streaming across the top of homes. Christmas lights have evolved a lot over time and they … Continue reading

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Why people go on pilgrimages

Most of us have heard of people who have made religious pilgrimages but for those who are not particularly religious or those who know little about the details of a pilgrimage, the idea of what drives a person to walk … Continue reading

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Mothering Sunday: Britain’s History of Mother’s Day

If you’re British or are familiar with British customs, you’ll know that in the UK there is a different date for Mother’s Day celebrations than in the States. What’s more, traditionally the British day of celebration is not known as … Continue reading

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Christmas Robin: Why are robins on Christmas cards?

If you’re ever in Britain around Christmas time, you’ll find pictures of robin red breasts adorning Christmas cards, ornaments, stamps, chocolate boxes, shop windows and Christmas wrapping paper. Their images can even be found decorating Christmas cakes. How did the … Continue reading

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Green St Patricks Day: What is St Patricks day and why do we wear green on St Patricks day?

Every March 17th, many places around the globe celebrate St Patrick’s Day with parades, costumes, wearing green, glugging down Irish beer and  generally having some good old craic! Why do we wear green on this day? And more importantly, what … Continue reading

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Pancake day history: Why do we eat pancakes on Shrove Tuesday?

Once a year it is customary to stuff our faces with pancakes. Yes, I’m talking about Pancake Day! Or as it’s more correctly known by it’s Christian name, Shrove Tuesday. But how did “Pancake Day” arise? Why do we eat … Continue reading

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History of Valentines Day: Why do we celebrate Valentines day?

Valentine’s Day is almost a worldwide phenomenon, celebrating romance and love every February 14th. In spite of celebrating it, many of us don’t really know the origins of Valentine’s Day nor why it’s celebrated. What is the history of Valentine’s … Continue reading

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Why do we celebrate Boxing Day?

The day after Christmas Day is known as Boxing Day, and it’s a welcome additional day off work to many. But have you ever wondered why it’s called “Boxing Day”? And why do we get this day off work anyway? … Continue reading

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Why do we eat Turkey at Christmas?

Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a roast turkey; but why do we eat turkey at Christmas? Continue reading

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