The second time we have held a dinner after the AGM and appropriately just before Christmas.  This year, even more appropriate was

the theme of the talk by our President, Dr Paul Olver, on the possible origins of the Star of Bethlehem.  Paul examined the poorly documented but nevertheless fervently believed bases of the star, the wise men and why Bethlehem.  The Gospels, written as they were 4 or 5 generations later are at odds with each other and written histories from the middle east, of the era have dating mistakes so there is not much to go on.  Astronomers however are able to offer concrete evidence by using technology to turn back the night sky to those

days.  This, together with more recently revealed histories from the far east (China) tend to support the idea that there was a nova (not a super nova).  A nova is a star that grows in magnitude until it becomes visible to the naked eye, then dims again so that it disappears from view.  Of course in those days the eye was all that was available, though there were no lights to dim the night sky so conditions particularly in the dry regions of the middle east, would have been ideal for viewing. Other theories, tested by modern astronomers, have centred around planetary conjunctions when planets normally seen on their own, often brighter than any object other than the moon, are seen as being very close to each other thus increasing their visibility. Although there were several of these in the time period, actually around 4 or 5 BC before Herod died, none were aligned enough or in the correct position to look like one object or to act as a lead to Bethlehem.  After considering all the possibilities Pauls’ conclusion was that a nova is the best solution. HERE is a more comprehensive examination of theories, to be found in Wikipedia

David thanked Paul for an entertaining talk, and awarded TVGS’s first unsung, in this case, heroine award, to Paul’s wife Sue for her continuing, dedicated presence with Paul, staying in the background yet carrying out key activities to make it happen–one example being that Sue drives Paul everywhere, others that she acts as his minder and diary keeper–thanks Sue!

The Talbot delivered a tasty 3 course Christmas meal with wine in their lovely, festive function room.