Italian bishop apologizes for telling children Santa doesn't exist
CTV
The bishop of Noto in Sicily stunned schoolchildren last week when he told them that Santa Claus does not exist. He has since apologized.
"No, Santa Claus does not exist. In fact, I would add that the red of the suit he wears was chosen by Coca Cola exclusively for advertising purposes," Antonio Staglianò told the children, according to Sicilian media.
Italian media reported that the comments came during an event held on the feast day of Saint Nicholas, the initial inspiration for the figure of Santa Claus and widely known for his generosity.
However, after the bishop's comments went viral, the Diocese of Noto posted an apology on its Facebook page, written by Staglianò's press secretary Father Alessandro Paolini.
"First of all, on behalf of the Bishop, I express regret for this statement that has disappointed the children, and want to clarify that this was not at all Mr. Staglianò's intention," the statement said.
