[dormento]

> Although I would argue the Trinity (which is a modern Christian invention) and many aspects of reverence for saints and angels is pseudo-polytheistic, and likely a result of the syncretism of the various pagan traditions into Christianity as it spread throughout Europe, although that came later.

Good point. There are many "local versions" of Mary, for example, in Latin America. All of them display unique traits indicative of "synchretization" (sp?) of say african Orishas, probably dating back to the time of the slave trade.

[krapp]

Haitian "voodoo" is the result of combining African religious beliefs with Catholicism by slaves they could continue to practice their religion in secret. A similar process happened with Christianity in Japan after it was outlawed - it took on the appearance of local Shinto and Buddhist practice.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haitian_Vodou

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kakure_Kirishitan