S3 E14 Is there a Santa Claus

Is Santa real? Of course, he is!

There is reliable confirmation that dates to 1897, when eight-year-old Virginia O’Hanlon wrote her famous letter.

You may recall that it all began when Virginia asked her father, Dr. Philip O’Hanlon, whether there really was a Santa Claus.  Her father’s answer was brilliant.  Instead of responding himself, he suggested that she write direct to The Sun, one of New York’s most prominent newspapers at the time.  He assured her that “If you see it in The Sun, it’s so.”

Virginia received a response from veteran newsman, Francis Pharcellus Church, a lead editorial writer for the New York Sun. Francis Church, who had seen great suffering as a war correspondent during the American Civil War, was a known skeptic, hardened cynic who had little tolerance for superstitious beliefs. And yet, he recognized the need for hope and faith in society. Perhaps it is when we see sorrow and grief, we are more able to answer a call for affirmation in the goodness of life. For that is what Virginia looked for when she asked whether there is a Santa Claus.

More than a century later, the article written by Francis Church still maintains it standing as the most reprinted newspaper editorial, appearing in part or whole in dozens of languages in books, movies, and other editorials, and on posters and stamps.

While the existence of Santa Claus as a literal being is a matter of belief, Santa Claus holds a special place in the hearts of many. The story of Virginia’s letter to The Sun in 1897 has become a symbol of the enduring spirit of Santa Claus. It reminds us of the joy and wonder that Santa Claus brings during the holiday season. Whether we believe in Santa Claus or not, the idea of Santa Claus continues to inspire generosity, love, and the spirit of giving.

Join me as I read Francis Church’s most famous editorial written in 1897 – Is there a Santa Clause?

Dear friends, may the joy of Christmas Eve surround you and yours, with love, warmth, and wonder.  Together, may we embrace hope and expectation as we enter a new year.  

Rebecca

Music from Epidemic Sound

Howard Harper-Barnes "The Gift of Giving"

https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/c1fLLKeTmH/

John B. Lund "A Christmas Lullaby"

https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/Mor63mOsPB/

Niklas Gabrielsson with Martin Landström & His Orchestra "Ding Dong (Instrumental Version)"https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/UZaZuE6miR/