In a way it's apropos to write about Christmas on its eve, at supper time. That's because "Christmas," or "Christ's mass" (Christes maesse) is an old English word which referred to the Lord's Supper (i.e. the Mass - breaking and dividing of bread). But its use came much later. According to the "Handbook of Christian Feasts and Customs" the word "Christmas" was not generally used until 1038, a millennium after its namesake died.

The early Christians did not celebrate Christmas; Easter was the religious day most important to them. Nevertheless, by the third century Christmas started, beginning in Rome and, over time, coincident with so many pagan and other religions' winter holidays. In fact it is from those holidays we took many of our current customs, such as the Celtic Druids' mystical mistletoe and the ancient Roman Saturnalia tree.

Speaking of trimmed trees, while "Christmas tree" was a common term in England by the 1800s and likely borrowed from Germany's tradition of decorating trees with candles at Christmas (Tannenbaum means fir tree), the practice long predates Christianity (German, Italian, and Norse traditions also had early versions of Santa Claus). At Saturnalia and other cultures' winter solstice celebrations, evergreens were commonly center-stage - as homage to the sun, to nature and its mysteries.

And so it was that winter solstice which anchored the modern Christmas date. The Bible makes no reference to the month, let alone the year of baby Jesus's birth. Some hints exist, such as tending a flock of sheep by night which was rare in the coldest months. Historians estimate the birth year ranging from 4 to 7 B.C.E. and have through the centuries suggested birthdates in January (Orthodox Christmas for some), March, April, May, and November.

So why do we celebrate in December? Back to the early church and its desire to overshadow pre-existing winter solstice traditions in late December. One way to convert is to replace or mix one tradition with another so over time, the old way is overshadowed by the new. As the Oxford Concise Dictionary of World Religions quoted one third century Christian writer:

"We hold this day holy, not like the pagans because of the birth of the sun, but because of him who made it."

However traditions evolved, why not celebrate all? Here's to a very Merry Christmas, a happy winter solstice, homage to the sun, and the best life and love may offer on Dec. 25 and year 'round.

Sholeh Patrick is a columnist for the Hagadone News Network. Contact her at sholeh@cdapress.com.