by Robert Parr, Christian Today
The Leprosy Mission reports that sales of the Real Advent Calendar have “soared” on its website following an online blow-up involving Meghan Markle and a pair of Anglican priests.
The online storm began with the news that the Duchess of Sussex had released a premium advent calendar costing £112. In response, Anglican vicar, the Rev Daniel French, suggested that the Meaningful Chocolate Company’s own festive offering, being sold through The Leprosy Mission among other places, might be more suitable.
Boasting a selection of fairtrade chocolate and the modest asking price of £5.99, sales of the Real Advent Calendar go towards the Leprosy Mission. It also contains a booklet explaining the Christmas story and the birth of Jesus.
Unfortunately, Rev French’s intervention apparently did not go down well with the so-called “Sussex Squad”, vocal online fans of the duchess and her husband Prince Harry. French was forced to endure the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune from the disgruntled fans, although he did receive support from fellow priest, Father Chris Phillips.
While the whole business may have become unnecessarily nasty and personal, there has been a silver lining.
According to The Leprosy Mission, it has been inundated with messages of support from all over the world, with sales of the advent calendar soaring as a result.