AlanB, you “…believe in a creator, a life beyond this one and a purpose for that life”?
Well, isn’t this what most people believe in? In the past, when science was non-existent, people had to rely on what was told. And yes, the stories served many purposes. Not all good.
Nowadays, it is up to us whether we continue believing in those rituals and to keep seeking inspiration from priests, or bravely face traveling beyond the trodden path. Nothing proven, but a vague feeling that there must be more to it?
I don’t expect answers any time soon, but keep contemplating and asking questions. I call this sacred thinking. I hope one day I will get it!
Christmas celebrations are fun. But it has little to do with the deeper meaning of life. It is all very superficial, ritualized and commercialized. And there is a darker side to it: lonely people will feel even more disowned.
Merry Christmas to you all!

'lonely people will feel even more disowned'

.....and they shouldn't have to wait for Christmas to feel inclusive but then that's an indictment on this society as a whole