The Church of England have sent a message of annoyance to the Royal Mail over this year's Christmas stamps, which feature festive fun rather than a Christian theme. Santa Claus, snowmen, reindeer and a Christmas tree surrounded by presents appear on the 2006 collection, which goes on sale Tuesday.
The established church in England delivered a note of "regret" at the lack of reference to the birth of Jesus Christ, while the Royal Mail said they alternated each year between religious and non-religious themes.
Last year's set included a controversial image of a couple with Hindu markings worshipping Jesus.
"In 2004, the Church of England's General Synod approved a motion calling for Royal Mail to issue Christmas stamps with Christian themes every year," said a C of E spokesman on Monday.
"We regret that the Royal Mail have decided against continuing last year's welcome return to Christian-themed designs reminding people of the true meaning of Christmas."
A Royal Mail spokesman insisted the themes were on rotation.
"It is about celebrating all elements of Christmas," he said. "It is something that we have always done. I think people will see this year's issue of stamps as a 'first class' set of Christmas stamps."
The Royal Mail's 40th collection of festive stamps was designed by Japanese digital illustrator Tatsuro Kiuchi, who used layers of transparent colour to build up the images.
The Royal Mail boasts: "These stamps will make your Christmas post sparkle with festive spirit, putting a smile on your friend's and family's faces."
But perhaps not at the General Synod.
