The Survivor

“See if you can guess who this is,” Father Urrutia sipped his martini. “He was born of a virgin on December 25. Three Magi following a star, brought him gifts. He was called the ‘good shepherd,’ ‘the way, the truth and the light,’ ‘redeemer,’ ‘savior’, ‘Messiah’ ‘son of God.’ He was human, yet divine. Had 12 disciples and performed many miracles. He told his disciples that the soul is immortal and that at the end of time, there would be a resurrection of the dead and in a last judgment, he would reward and punish every soul. He was crucified to atone for the sins of mankind, died and was buried in a tomb. On the third day, he rose again from the dead and returned to heaven. His principal festival was Easter, celebrating the time of his Resurrection. His faithful followers used the cross as their holy symbol. His church had seven sacraments, including Baptism and the Eucharist, a sacred meal of bread, water and consecrated wine. And it was all run by celibate priests and a Pope who wore a sacred miter on his head.”

Burt shrugged. “That’s Jesus Christ and his religion.”

“Is it?” Urrutia smiled. “You see, I was describing the ancient pagan religion of Mithra.”