People who believe the Christmas story is a myth but still attend church services at Christmas are taking part in a 'sham'.
That's according to Revd Steve Goodbody from Devon, said that 'God is for Life - Not just for Christmas'.
Writing in a parish magazine he said: "We are always pleased to welcome the many occasional visitors who join us to celebrate God's gift to us of the Lord Jesus Christ. It's great to see full churches and to hear hearty singing over the festive period.
"On the other hand if we think that the message of Christmas is untrue – that it is just a myth or a fairy story – then why do we bother going to church at all? It is a bit of a sham to go through the motions if deep down we think that it is a load of nonsense.
"We may enjoy the sentimental feelings that the carol service generates, but if it is all based on a falsehood or a delusion, then we are simply indulging a fantasy."
The Bishop of Bradford, the Rt Revd Nick Baines, told Premier's News Hour the Church does have work to do.
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