Season's greetings

In deference to the sensibilities of the Anglican Archbishop of Wales, who plainly has a predilection for urban as much as scriptural legend, I wish my readers a happy Winterval.

The Archbishop will surely be indulgent. The significance of 25 December has deep roots in the Roman cult of Mithras (which, suspiciously enough, held a sacramental meal as part of its ceremonial) and the feast of Saturnalia. It would seem only right to celebrate our glorious diversity by wishing you a merry Christmas too. I shall be back at new year.