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A story of legends, families and capitalism: a candid history of the Christmas tree

The Christmas tree is a modern invention. It is a largely secular symbol, having no basis in the Bible. There are many trees in the Bible, from the Tree of Knowledge and the Tree of Life in Genesis to the reference to Christ’s cross as a “tree” in Acts. But…

The Conversation · Dec 19, 2022

The Catholic view on indulgences and how they work today

In 1517, the German theologian Martin Luther nailed 95 theses to Wittenberg’s Castle Church door, attacking indulgences, a Catholic practice that, according to church teachings, can reduce or eliminate punishment for sin. Starting in the 11th century, the church offered indulgences to those who joined the Crusades and later sold…

The Conversation · Dec 14, 2022

Space debris, an ancient tree, and next year’s Oscars host – take the Thursday quiz

Fifteen questions on general knowledge and topical trivia, plus a few jokes every Thursday. How will you fare?

The Guardian - UK · Nov 10, 2022