Tag 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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Why do we have the engagement and wedding ring custom?

We’ve all seen it hundreds of times in movies: The handsome hero hunkers down on bended knee, smiles at his beloved adoringly through sparkling eyes, and whips out a twinkling engagement ring. Engagement rings are offered as a promise of … Continue reading

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