Jolly Ole’ Santa Clause
Has the tradition of Santa Clause confused the meaning of Christmas?
Santa Clause comes to mind at the mere mention of Christmas. Children love Santa Clause and are almost always excited about gifts from Santa.
Because of so much focus on Santa Clause during the holiday season, many people worry that the tradition of Santa Clause confuses the meaning of Christmas for children.
Laura Legend’s thoughts on Santa Clause…
The tradition of Santa Clause stems from the celebrations of St. Nicholas’ Day. St. Nicholas was a generous man who gave gifts to those who needed them; so in essence, Santa Clause is associated with gift giving.
The tradition of gift giving comes both from the legend of St. Nicholas and the birth of Jesus when the wise men brought gifts to the new king.
The purpose of Christmas is to celebrate Christ’s birth. In that context, Santa Clause doesn’t make a lot of sense.
However, the tradition of Santa Clause makes children happy and makes Christmas, the celebration of Christ’s birth, special and memorable.
To prevent Santa Clause from taking away from the real meaning of Christmas for children, parents should tell children Christmas stories about St. Nicholas and Jesus Christ.
Parents should explain that Christmas is the celebration of Christ’s birth, that gift giving is symbolic of the wise men taking gifts to Baby Jesus when he was born and Santa Clause, like St. Nicholas, brings Christmas gifts to children.
Children who are taught the true meaning of Christmas can still enjoy the fun and fantasy that Santa Clause brings to the season without confusing the meaning of Christmas.