VirginiaHuguenot
Puritanboard Librarian
I am interested to learn about the views of fellow PB'ers with respect to what are commonly referred to as "holidays." That season is approaching and I am sure there are divergent views and practices with regards to this subject on the Board.
The Westminster Directory for Public Worship teaches that
[quote:fb756b8ce2]THERE is no day commanded in scripture to be kept holy under the gospel but the Lord's day, which is the Christian Sabbath.
Festival days, vulgarly called Holy-days, having no warrant in the word of God, are not to be continued.[/quote:fb756b8ce2]
It is well-known that the Puritans outlawed Christmas, etc. Yet many in the Reformed camp today - including those who hold to the Regulative Principle of Worship - do observe Christmas, Easter, and other church calendar days. Some might call them holy days, others might celebrate them in a "secular" way. What reasons do those who celebrate them have? What reasons are there for those who do not celebrate them?
What about holidays such as Reformation Day or Thanksgiving? What about St. Valentine's Day? What about Halloween? What about holy days in other countries besides America?
Please feel free to share your rationale for what you do or do not observe. Although the subject of holidays can be one that brings up deep emotions, I hope to encourage friendly debate among the brethren.
What are your thoughts?
The Westminster Directory for Public Worship teaches that
[quote:fb756b8ce2]THERE is no day commanded in scripture to be kept holy under the gospel but the Lord's day, which is the Christian Sabbath.
Festival days, vulgarly called Holy-days, having no warrant in the word of God, are not to be continued.[/quote:fb756b8ce2]
It is well-known that the Puritans outlawed Christmas, etc. Yet many in the Reformed camp today - including those who hold to the Regulative Principle of Worship - do observe Christmas, Easter, and other church calendar days. Some might call them holy days, others might celebrate them in a "secular" way. What reasons do those who celebrate them have? What reasons are there for those who do not celebrate them?
What about holidays such as Reformation Day or Thanksgiving? What about St. Valentine's Day? What about Halloween? What about holy days in other countries besides America?
Please feel free to share your rationale for what you do or do not observe. Although the subject of holidays can be one that brings up deep emotions, I hope to encourage friendly debate among the brethren.
What are your thoughts?