Anglican leader questions Nativity story
London, Dec. 21, 2007 (CWNews.com) – The Archbishop of Canterbury questioned the accuracy of the Nativity story in a BBC television interview.
Dr. Rowan Williams, the worldwide leader of the Anglican communion, said that the story of the Magi in particular is vague at best, and the claim that the followed a star to Bethlehem is incredible because "stars to not behave like that."
The Anglican leader said that it is "very unlikely" that Jesus was born in Bethlehem in December. The tradition of celebrating the Nativity in December only arose, he said, "because it fitted well with the winter festival."
Archbishop Williams also questioned whether Jesus was born of a virgin. While he personally accepts that tenet of faith, he said, "that's not a pre-condition for being a Christian."