Commentary
Traditionally, Christmas Day commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. The celebrations originated in pagan and Roman times when the Romans celebrated the birth of Mithra, their sun god, on Dec. 25.
St Mary's Cathedral is illuminated with Christmas themed projections in celebration of Christmas in Sydney, Australia, on Dec. 21, 2021. Brendon Thorne/Getty Images
Gabriël Moens
Author
Gabriël A. Moens AM is an emeritus professor of law at the University of Queensland, and served as pro vice-chancellor and dean at Murdoch University. In 2003, Moens was awarded the Australian Centenary Medal by the prime minister for services to education. He has taught extensively across Australia, Asia, Europe, and the United States.
