Parents across Hampshire were left in a state of shock and anger when a reverend seemingly ruined the cherished holiday spirit for a group of young children. According to The Times, the incident at Lee-on-the-Solent Junior School sent students sobbing and parents upset. The local vicar, Rev. Paul Chamberlain, reportedly told the 10- and 11-year-olds that Santa isn't real during a chat about the holiday and its origins. Not only that, but he also explained that it's their parents who buy the Christmas presents and consume the treats left out each year.

The Reverend's Christmas Revelation and Its Aftermath

Impact on Students

The news was met with disbelief and distress among the students. As one 10-year-old present during the chat shared, "I heard a lot of gasps because they were shocked about it. So, I don't think everyone knew." Many children were taken by surprise and began to cry in class. One mom recounted that her child was upset but still held onto the belief that Santa exists. She felt fortunate that her child hadn't been completely swayed by the reverend's words. However, for others, it was a difficult pill to swallow.Another mom whose young children have been telling her daily that Santa isn't real since the incident expressed her struggle with how to move forward. She described the situation as "absolutely disgusting" and didn't want the reverend anywhere near her daughter.

School's Response

The school took steps to address the situation. The headteacher wrote to parents twice, with the second letter including an apology from Rev. Chamberlain. Some teachers also made "Lee-on-the-Solent believe" badges to try and restore some of the holiday magic. In an email, teachers explained that they had told students that all stories and legends around Christmas are legitimate and that their own family beliefs are what matter and are just as valid as the Christian Christmas story.

Diocese's Stance

The diocese issued a statement regarding the incident. A spokesperson told The Times that Rev. Paul Chamberlain was leading an RE lesson for ten and eleven-year-olds and made some comments about the existence of Father Christmas after discussing the Nativity story from the Bible. The statement continued, stating that Paul has accepted that this was an error of judgment and he should not have done so. He apologized unreservedly to the school, parents, and children, and the headteacher immediately wrote to all parents to explain the situation. The statement also noted that the school and diocese have worked together to address the issue.Rev. Chamberlain and St Faith's did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for comment, nor did representatives for St Faith's or the Diocese of Portsmouth. Parents have since raged about the "ruined Christmas" and filed a formal complaint against the reverend. But the school and diocese are working to heal the wounds and bring some magic back into the holiday season.