Comments on: An excellent gift for the Vicar

By: Ann V

Ann V — Tue, 19 Jan 2021 23:01:00 +0000

Wonderful language of this declaration and you are right…why didn’t someone tell them to lighten up and allow extream forgetfulness? Fascinating to be reminded of the links between our 16th Century predecessors and current day practices in some religious circles.

By: Huguenot Jo

Huguenot Jo — Sun, 13 Dec 2020 16:03:25 +0000

In reply to John Freeman.

That’s a very good point, and I will have to dig into it. The Calvinist emphasis was always on the plain and simple, and strict observance of the Sabbath. In my childhood our family was not supposed to do anything on a Sunday except attend chapel, eat and read the Bible or, at a push, an improving book. Absolutely no work or leisure activity.

What the Reformed Faith aimed to reform was the “corrupted” Catholic Church, and celebration of Holy Feast Days was seen as part of that corruption. As Strict Baptists, the only celebrations we acknowledged were Christmas, Easter and Whit Sunday – although Harvest Festival did creep in there as well. No alcohol was consumed.

By: John Freeman

John Freeman — Sun, 13 Dec 2020 15:32:19 +0000

As always, an arresting post, for which thanks. It would be interesting to explore how far other Puritans or equivalent Christians elsewhere in 17th century Protestant Europe took a similar view and equivalent steps in their own jurisdictions. What view did the migrant refugees from France take of Christmas festivities?

By: Huguenot Jo

Huguenot Jo — Sun, 13 Dec 2020 14:51:59 +0000

In reply to Catherine L Innes.

Thank you! “Grinch” is indeed a wonderful name – echoing, as you say, “grouch” but I think also “pinch”, with all its many meanings.

I wish you too the best of the season’s delights!

By: Catherine L Innes

Catherine L Innes — Sun, 13 Dec 2020 14:20:01 +0000

I like the fact that the ordinance and tea towel highlight ‘carnal and sensual delights’ in red. What a bunch of wet blankets those Grinchy Puritans were! Where does the name ‘Grinch’ come from, I wonder? Was there once a Mr Grinch, and a Mrs Grinch, and several little Grinches who went around demonstrating their disapproval of anything that might bring pleasure? Or did Dr Seuss make the name up to echo Grouch, perhaps? Anyway, I defiantly and doughtily wish you and your many fans a festive Christmas full of carnal and sensual delights.