"Not in the bible" != "Not Christian"

(!= means ≠ or <> or "does not equal")

Utility pole sign that says
the Rapture is coming on October 28, 1992

"Not in the bible" isn't necessarily the same as "not Christian," "untrue," "heretical," etc.

In my layman's opinion, we are free to complement Christian tradition if it doesn't conflict with what's already in the bible and it helps us understand and practice what is there.

Every denomination does this. Every one, even those who think they don't. Small differences of opinion on common beliefs can lead to very different expressions of belief, and since we tend to judge each other by appearances, those expressions take on significance far out of proportion to the differences they represent.

There's a tombstone in Ireland (IIRC) that that says "I sold tin to Jesus Christ." I doubt Jesus made it to Ireland (at that time called Hibernia by Romans), but someone thought so, and what's the harm?

That's one of the great things about relics and tombs and such - they hold stories, and we love stories. Ever look at a painting and just wonder what the people are thinking or doing? That's what icons are all about, Charlie Brown.

[2014-07-25]

c0