Father Dennis Higgins, who's in his 80s, claimed Santa and toys were not part of the true meaning of Christmas, as he lectured pupils from St Anne's primary school in the town who were at the service along with 11 and 12-years-old from St Thomas More secondary school.
The Headmaster of St Anne's School was left to clear up the confusion afterwards, telling the children that he had spoken personally to Santa about what happened.
According to the Telegraph, Brendan Hickey, head teacher at St Thomas More Catholic School in Buxton, Derbyshire, said: "I want to reassure all year three pupils at St Anne's, and their parents, that I have personally spoken to Father Christmas and told him about what has happened.
"He was sorry to hear about the confusion and has promised me that he will arrange for his elves to write to each of the children and reassure them that he will definitely be coming to visit them this Christmas."
One parent, who did not wish to be identified, said: "How dare he say such things to such young children? To try and take away the magic of Christmas is just plain mean. "It really saddens me that someone who people should respect and look up to can do something so means."
Father Andrew Cole, spokesman for the Catholic Diocese of Nottingham, which includes Buxton and the surrounding area, said he apologised for Father Higgins' "intemperate language" after he was asked about the matter.
He said: "Christmas is a wonderful time of the year, especially for our children.
"On the first Christmas Day, God gave us his most precious gift, Jesus, who shows us how to love God and one another.
"We celebrate Jesus' birth in Bethlehem by putting up Christmas trees and decorations, singing carols, sending cards, giving each other presents, and spending time with those we love most.
"Father Christmas is always a welcome visitor in our homes, and we will all be looking forward to his arrival on Christmas Day, including me."
Reports suggest Father Higgins, who is based at St Anne's Catholic Church in Buxton, was reluctant to apologise; prompting other locals to set up a Facebook called 'Support Father Higgins' in support.
The page reads: "This page is being set up on behalf of Father Dennis Higgins who has dedicated his life to God and the Church. He has been a pillar of Buxton's community."
Supporter Sheryl Anne Ellison posted: "I know Father Dennis; he keeps it real in every sense, even with regard to the bible and gospel."
