By Daiaphira Kharsati
SHILLONG: This Christmas, Santa comes early, reads an advertisement which does not have any reference to child Jesus.
While the picture of Santa Claus has become the dominating image of Christmas, there is a demand to place the celebration of the birth of Jesus in its right perspective.
There are contradicting views as to whether the image of Santa Claus has overtaken that of baby Jesus, with Christian leaders and the laity bringing forth varied views.
Speaking to The Shillong Times, Rev G.S. Lyttan, Administrative Secretary of Presbyterian Church of India, said that that Santa has not overtaken the image of baby Jesus, while RG Lyngdoh, Vice Chancellor, Martin Luther Christian University said, “I hope that such a situation will not surface, the Bible does not mention of Santa as he is a commercial symbol. But it seems that now-a-days it is going in that direction.”
Lyngdoh added, “Christmas is not about Santa, parties, cakes but it is about Jesus coming to save us.”
While another Church leader who does not wish to be named said, “I do not think people see Santa Claus in the Church, it is only for commercial purposes.”
Fr. P.D. Johny, Rector and Principal, Don Bosco CTE, Tura, said, “Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus, our Saviour, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He is the reason for Christmas season. Some people especially children associate Christmas with Santa Claus. I believe it is due to ignorance.”
He added that Santa is a commercial image, “Everything is turning out to be commercial and external, while the spiritual dimension is waning.”
The commercial side of the celebration is visible during Christmas as shopping spree has gripped the Shillongites despite the adverse weather conditions.
A home maker said that her little son had asked her when will Santa Clause come and distribute sweets indicating that it is the image of Santa Claus that fills the mind of every child since what they see around especially at shops and in decorations are the cut outs of Santa Claus.
The reason that most people point out is that the image of Santa Claus excites the children whereas the adults believe that Jesus has come as the Saviour of the world.
Many agree that the image of Santa Claus has overtaken that of baby Jesus which, according to them should change as the essence of Christmas is the birth of Jesus in a humble way in a manger heralding the good news to the poor and the needy.