Date sent: Mon, 20 Dec 1999 14:48:15 EST
Subject: Re: X in Christmas?
To: vocalist
Send reply to: VOCALIST <vocalist>


In a message dated 12/20/99 11:34:08 AM, avid23-at-hotmail.com writes:

<<
John, I have gotten out of the horrible habit of using the 'X', which as you
say has absolutely no place in a word such at Christmas! It is entirely
something which the businesses have drummed into our heads. Shame on us. >>

John and David, that isn't totally true, so don't beat yourself up about it
... the X is the Greek CHI, and P is the Greek Rho. The two are the first two
letters of Christos in Greek, and the two are usually superimposed, one over
the other, in the familiar XP monogram. The two represent the entire name of
Christ. Xmas is a poor shorthand for "Christ-Mass."

So...even though we may consider it a poor substitute at times, or just for
commercial use, the origin is definitely NOT pagan nor commecial.

Sincerely,
Lynda Lacy, Soprano, St. Andrews Episcopal Cathedral
Director of Choral Activities, Jackson Preparatory School
Jackson, MS
LYNDA313-at-aol.com