John the Baptist, Pagans, Christians, and Summer

Today is the official beginning of summer!

The summer solstice arrives (or arrived, depending upon when you read this) on June 21, 2010 at 7:28 am EDT. “Solstice” is derived from two Latin words: “sol” meaning sun, and “sistere,” to cause “to stand still.” It’s an appropriate name. On the day of the solstice, the sun rises so high in the mid-day sky, and the day is so long, the sun appears to stand still.

You may or may not know that many of our “Christian” holidays are twisted and tied up with former Pagan celebrations (Christmas, Easter, etc.). Pagan cultures (and I use the word “Pagan” in its benign form, referring to those people groups who pre-date Christianity), from the Celts to the Germanic and Nordic tribes also had a ritual for the summer solstice. It seems Christianity escaped an entanglement with this particular celebration…but not so fast!!!

After the conversion of Europe to Christianity, the feast day of St. John the Baptist was set as June 24th. It is one of the earliest feast days established, as early as the year 500 or so. His feast is held on the “alleged date of his birth” while most other Saints’ Days are observed on the anniversary of their death. Why? This seems to be another Christian attempt to “redeem” a Pagan holiday. John’s feast day is just after the summer solstice just as Christmas is fixed a few days after the winter solstice.

So, I don’t know how John would feel about having a feast day, but it’s on the calendar anyway. I wonder if we are supposed to eat locust and wild honey in his honor (see Matthew 3:1-6)?

Happy summer!!!