[Amanah]

Still in Chapter 2

I kind of knew this information, but didn't realize the full extent of the pagan influence on the Catholic Church.
I've spent time in Germany, Italy, and France and have seen the beauty and grandeur of many of these churches first hand. They truly are the glory of Europe. In many villages the church is the show piece and center of life till this day. I've spend many hours wandering around in Cathedrals and marveling at Romanesque and Gothic structures, their art, spires and stained glass windows. I know that in the Middle Ages, for the unlettered masses, the Church (steeped in pagan ritual as it was) was the only way people had to know the history and stories of their God. For depicted on the churches in art are the stories of the fall and redemption of mankind.

back to the book

Constantine Churches were fashioned after pagan temples.

Holy water, a purification ritual before entering the temple
Churches were decorated with pagan art
Basilicas were designed for sun worship, so faced the east
the bread and wine represented the sacred sacrifice
the Bishop's chair was called the Cathedra (the throne)
the pomp and ritual also derived from pagans
Roman Emperors appeared in public with lights, candles, incense and processional music

side note: I have a new favorite breakfast. I scoop some oatmeal in a bowl, add a chopped apple, cover with just enough water to cover the oatmeal but not the apple, microwave for 5 minutes at 50% power. After cooked add cinnamon, almond milk, and Stevia and eat. It's really good.