Christmas – too much commerce, too little Christianity
Too many children are growing up completely oblivious to the real meaning of Christmas, believes Auckland City Mayor Hon
John Banks.
“Most of today’s leaders are too politically correct to talk about Christianity. As a society, we have wasted too much
time devising ways of how not to offend non-Christians and in the meantime Christianity has been pushed onto the back
burner. It is time we gave Christianity the respect it deserves.”
Mr Banks said while the commercial side of Christmas is important to our economy, he thinks Christmas advertising begins
too early. What’s more, too much emphasis is placed on lifting people’s expectations around what presents they should
receive as a right. Nowhere do we hear the age-old adage of ‘it is better to give.’
“I encourage Auckland families to tell their youngsters about the true spirit of Christmas and the real reasons why we
celebrate it. On 25 December we celebrate the birth of Christ – the Son of God who later died on a cross for our sins,
bringing salvation and eternal life to all of those who believe in him.”
Mr Banks said while Christmas is a joyful time for family and friends, people should take the time to think about people
less fortunate.
“Plenty of food, presents, and laughter should be part of people’s festive season but let’s not forget it is the season
of goodwill to others. I challenge people to reach out to others this Christmas and take the time to put others on a
pedestal,” said Mr Banks.