Why does Santa ring a bell and collect money sometimes?
Ian
I just saw a guy dressed as Santa Claus ringing a bell and asking for money. Why does Santa need money? Is he broke?
Clive
No. The money wasn’t for him. He was collecting it for others.
Ian
But Santa is supposed to give us stuff! Not ask for our money!
Clive
Who is Santa Claus?
Ian
Saint Nicholas. We learned that already.
Clive
And what did Saint Nicholas do?
Ian
He helped the poor.
Clive
Right. That person with the bell is with the Salvation Army.
Ian
Who are they?
Clive
They’re a group of Christians that work all year-round to help the poor.
Ian
Just like Saint Nicholas!
Clive
Right! So every Christmas they dress up like Santa and ring bells to collect money that they use to help the poor all year long! Just like Saint Nicholas!
Ian
That’s really neat! I’ve got another question.
Clive
Save it for tomorrow.
