Duvduv

I have looked for an inventory of the major customs and practices of the Church in relation to those of the Romans but have been unsuccessful. I have seen claims that the clerical costumes, sacraments, miters, staffs, etc. are directly derived from those used by ancient pagan clerics. Where could I find more information about this?

Toto

Look up the works of Herbert Armstrong or some of these other raving anti-Catholic evangelicals. They can explain in detail how the early Catholics took over all the pagan rituals, from the mitres the clergy wear to Christmas.

Chili

Good advice. They have a bigger library than Rome.

Duvduv

Are you suggesting that the claim about this is untrue? Or that only someone like Armstrong believes this?

Toto

I think the claim is true, and people like Armstrong have been the most highly motivated to make an issue of it. But there are many other sources if you don't like Armstrong.

From a neutral, historical point of view, it would be expected for Christians to pick up the cultural trappings of Roman society, as they have successfully picked up the cultural trappings of all societies where they have a presence. It's no big deal. But if you are a fundamentalist Protestant who thinks that the Pope is the Whore of Babylon, any pagan connection is proof of the corruption of the Catholic Church.

Chili

Oh, it does not matter to me at all. I do not study Rome nor keep track of them.

Chili

A nice point you make here, as if she is the greatest who can take all minor mythologies under her wings and be the adoration of them all.

Duvduv

So where can I read about it from a neutral historical point of view?
I already saw a video about the fish head miter derived from priests of Dagon.