Most people celebrate the holidays, but not all celebrate CHRISTmas.
According to an Ipsos-Reid poll released in 2011, 30 per cent of Canadians don’t believe in God. A 2001 census indicated that 42 per cent of Vancouverites don’t have religious affiliation. Yet, Christmas is still predominantly a Christian holiday.
Some atheists don’t like the imposition of a Christian holiday on their lives.
“I will admit that to me Christmas is in part an inconvenience,” said Geoff Regier, 26, who works for the YMCA. He said he resents the pressure to buy gifts for family as a symbol of love.
However, he doesn’t dislike everything about the season.
“I enjoy the Christmas lights and the music associated with Christmas,” said Regier. He also pointed out that most of the typical Christmas traditions, such as tree trimming, are pagan in origin.
Atheist Scott Beck, 51, says he takes many of the holiday traditions.
“I am unaware of how xmas trees or dinner are related to Christ,” said Beck.
Beck says he puts up a tree, but tops it with a reindeer, not an angel or star.
Spokesman for the Langara Christian club, Justin Lai, isn’t bothered by atheists celebrating the holiday, but thinks believers should work to motivate people to celebrate the “true” meaning of Christmas.
“Christians should definitely encourage people to know the Lord Jesus Christ. The way that Christians can bring people into faith is to live out a life worthy of the Lord Jesus Christ, and to express the truth of His message in love,” said Lai.
Local Ricky Shetty, who operates a website for fathers, became religious in university, says his Christian group welcomes atheists.
“Power to them. Come celebrate with us. Join us. Eat with us. Share in the magical spirit of giving and selflessness and in this journey… may you also come to discover that important cosmic Christmas that I have,” said Shetty.
thuncher@shaw.ca
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