Expert: Sal - 10/16/2006

Question
Hi Sal,


  I know that the history of thanksgiving is when the pilgrims ate with the Indians. But is it possible that this feast day on November 23 is far more older. I also been wondering about Christmas is it really the true day when Christ Jesus was born. I also know that Halloween is coming I want to celebrate it but in  the Christian way. what is the christian way? I know I ask to much questions but being curious is the only way to know and learn. I also was wondering about Valentines day and the other holidays are they really christian holidays? Thanks

God bless from Jacqueline

Answer
Dear Jacqueline:

Thanksgiving is an American holiday not a Christian one. A Catholic may celebrate Halloween by enjoying parties and costumes and candy. We must remember to pray for the saints' intercession (Nov. 1) and pray for the poor souls in Purgatory (Nov. 2). That is the difference between Catholics and non-Catholics on Halloween we remember the dead, the communion of saints. It is not actually known what day Christ was born on. The Catholic Church chose Dec. 25. St. Valentine's Day is very secularized today, but as its name implies it has Christian roots. Father Valentine was martyred for performing marriages for Roman soldiers. The emperor forbid marriage for his soldiers. Father Valentine refused to withhold the sacrament of marriage from soldiers and so he was beheaded for Christ and his Holy Catholic Church.

God Bless You,
Sal