Published on January 1, 2024, 2:14 am

Image source: Fox News

In the realm of trusted news, Steve Lantz has brought something truly special to the table. As an actor, pastor, and church planter with America’s Presbyterian Church, he faced a difficult decision – would he add “Santa” to his impressive resume? This was not an easy choice for him since the existence of Santa had never been acknowledged in front of his children, aged 6 and 10. He worried that portraying Santa might contradict his inherent Christian worldview.

However, on delving deeper into the origins of the beloved Christmas figure and discovering that Saint Nicholas was the individual upon which Santa Claus was patterned, Lantz found inspiration. An eminent character who saved women from repressive lives and innocent men from execution, St. Nicholas dedicated a considerable portion of his inheritance to those less fortunate. Lantz decided he would personify this charitable saint rather than the modernized commercial depiction of Santa Claus.

A resident of Florida, Lantz utilized his acting experience – having graced several TV series and films – while playing Santa at a tree-lighting ceremony held at Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne. Presenting an impressive physical likeness to Santa with his over six-feet stature and weighing around 300 pounds helped him gain favor amongst children. He also took note from Fred Rogers of Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood fame for shaping his character, focusing on one child at a time instead of addressing a wider audience.

Much like Fred Rogers, Steve Lantz is an ordained Presbyterian minister. The current chaplain at a local high school and a pastor with 15 years’ experience under his belt, he appreciates inventive methods to share Gospel teachings with others. For him, representing Santa served as a local mission opportunity in conveying these important messages.

Lantz relies heavily on this combination of professions while adorning the role of Santa; treating each child as unique individuals deserving respect and attention just as Jesus Christ did during His time on earth. He enjoys the privilege of interacting with both children and adults while portraying Santa, and he uses this platform as a means to introduce Jesus to new crowds. For Lantz, playing Santa is not just a role – it is another way to bring warmth into people’s lives and enhance his personal journey into spreading the Christian way of life.

Incorporating this approach helped him during an encounter with a young child named Adley. At three years old, she didn’t wish to sit on his knee but rather speak standing up. Steve sympathised and respected her feelings, reinforcing the self-confidence and dignity that children need at this age. The video capturing their exchange went viral, amassing views in millions.

Furthermore, his stint as Santa has been arrayed with multiple achievements; from being covered by real news outlets like “Good Morning America” and Fox News to generating funds for planting a church in Miami’s Overtown neighborhood which he feels profoundly attached towards. Showing everyone that more than being fun folk heritage, Santa can certainly be molded according to one’s values or beliefs.

The tale of Steve Lantz serves as an igniting beacon amidst the breaking news; showing how an imaginative approach can reshape traditional depictions while preserving core values.

CRTSND-ED12/21