The World Extra article of the same name today ponders the agony of parental discomfort in having to fess up to children that they have lied to them in the Santa Claus charade.
Episcopal parents don't have to worry, because we simply explain to our children that they have been teased as to the identity of the beloved figure. We let them know that Santa is not fake or made-up, but his actual identity is that of Saint Nicholas, the early bishop of Myra, Turkey, who is patron saint of children and who, during his lifetime, anonymously left presents for many children, and did other benevolent acts on behalf of God's beloved young ones. On one occasion, he even paid the dowry of a young girl to help her avoid being forced into prostitution. In various ways, this beloved saint was committed to showing God's love for others.
We explain that Nicholas is alive but in heaven and, so, he cannot personally bring gifts to earthly children. Instead, he must rely on parents, loved ones, and friends to be "agents" in giving gifts at this season. We and millions of others have the privilege each year to be partners with Nicholas in the joy of gift-giving. And that is no lie!
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