The edict of Constantine, and the full adoption of the heathen Sunday by the church, marks the point where this heathen union was consummated. Constantine at this point represented the heathen, being an ardent sun-worshiper. Pope Sylvester, at that time bishop of Rome, represented the Catholic Church. In its efforts to elevate Sunday, this church joyfully accepted his heathen decree and heathen day, and thus fully blended the heathen system with their corrupted form of Christianity. From that point the barriers were broken down, and heathen and heathenism largely took possession of the church. At this point, so history informs us, many of the humble, God-fearing Christians withdrew into retired places, where they could still worship God according to the Scriptures. ChSa 120.1