Someone told me that the rite of lighting and blessing the new fire on Easter Vigil comes from and old viking custom.

Is this true?

ENRIQUE

-- ENRIQUE ORTIZ (eaortiz@yahoo.com), March 19, 1999

Answers

When St. Patrick circa 500 arrived in Ireland the annual lighting of th fire from the king was already established. Patrick challenged the king by lighting a new flame in the name of Christ. The rest was history.

Many cultures revere fire and it's various components. Much of our Catholic religion is based on aged mannerisms termed pagan. Let us not forget we are only humans after all frightened and afraid of the dark.

Peace And Well Being.

Jean Bouchard

-- jean bouchard (jeanb@cwk.imag.net), May 11, 1999.

dear jean: a friendly advice: check your historical sources!!! in the 500 St patrick was already dead. Check in Peter's Net: EVENTS FROM THE CARROL HISTORY DATABASE.

ENRIQUE

-- ENRIQUE ORTIZ (eaortiz@yahoo.com), May 18, 1999.