... a very christian thing to do ...

Today is the twelfth day of Christmas. It is the custom - certainly in Britain - and I assume many other countries to hang up holly in the house. The origins of this custom date from pre-Christian times - when holly - and the leaving out of food - and the having a feast - and drink - and more drink - and yet more drink - was as hospitality to the local tree spirits and gods - and to keep them warm - over the coldest part of the year.

The Christians took over this custom - including providing the feast - and protecting the spirits and gods from the bad weather. This is a brilliant example of true Christian Spirit - looking after a group of small gods - you don't even believe in.