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Our Patron, Saint Nicholas
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Saint Nicholas of Myra was born in Lycia, Asia Minor, (lived c. 270 - 345/352) and was a 4th century bishop. His feast day is December 6th, presumably the date of his death. He is also known as the "Wonderworker". Several acts of kindness and miracles are attributed to him.Having lived in 4 AD, very little is known about Saint Nicholas that is historically verifiable. What we do know is that he was the Bishop of Myra, most likely suffered imprisonment during the persecution of Roman Emperor Diocletian, and was one of the bishops who attended the Council of Nicaea in 325.Saint Nicholas was born into an affluent and devout Christian family. When Nicholas was young, his parents died from an epidemic, leaving him an orphan and heir to his family wealth. Conscious of Jesus’ message to the rich, “sell what you have and give to the poor,” the wealthy young Nicholas did exactly that.Over all, Saint Nicholas is credited with being a miracle worker blessed with the virtues of kindness and generosity – especially to children.The Legends of Saint NicholasIn addition to what is known about Saint Nicholas, many legendary acts abound:- He once found three dead children in a brine tub and brought them back to life.
- He rescued three young girls doomed to prostitution through poverty, so as a gift, he tossed three bags of gold into their window that provided the means for the girls to have marriage dowries.
- He rescued three sailors from drowning
- He saved three condemned men from execution.
As Europeans migrated to the U.S., Dutch immigrants carried the legends of Saint Nicholas with them and referred to him as “Sinte Klaas.” His feast day was observed by giving presents and thus Santa Claus evolved.Whatever the legend, he is depict as a generous, strong and chivalrous man. Saint Nicholas is credited with being a miracle worker blessed with the virtues of kindness and generosity – especially to children.
SAINT NICHOLAS FEAST DAY DECEMBER 6th
There are many ways that Saint Nicholas' Feast Day is celebrated across the world and here are just a few highlights:- The night before the feast day, children will leave their shoe or boot out in front of the fireplace. When they wake up the next morning on December 6th, they will find their shoe filled with small gifts like coins, candy, and oranges.
- The coins are given in remembrance of the coins Saint Nicholas left the girls in need of a dowry.
- The oranges are given to signify the gold that Saint Nicholas gave away to those in need.
- From the legends of Saint Nicholas' generosity and led to the celebration of Santa Claus on Christmas Day today. In some countries, like Germany and Austria, St. Nicholas is accompanied by his couinterpart, the Krampus. Much like the legend of Santa Claus, the Krampus will leave coal in the shoes of misbehaving children. Children are encouraged to participate in acts of kindness to stay off of the Krampus/naughty list.
- Making traditional Saint Nicholas cookies is another way to celebrate the day. In the United States, gingerbread and sugar cookies are the most popular while in countries such as the Netherlands and Germany, it is spice cookies and peppermint cookies. The spice cookies are made into the shape of Saint Nicholas - complete with a Bisop's mitre and staff!
- Keeping Saint Nicholas Day focused on creating moments of kindness, generosity, and friendship, imitating St. Nicholas' great legacy. You could drop off a grocery store gift card to someone in need, pay a utility bill of someone you know needs help, donate your time to a food pantry, or donate to a new charity.
- Some countries celebrate Saint Nicholas Day with a community parade, with a special meal, or a party with friends.
No matter how you choose to celebrate, Saint Nicholas Day is a reminder of the powerful message of generosity and love
that Saint Nicholas lived.Learn more at:My Catholic Life St. NicholasCatholic Apostolate St. Nicholas
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FAST FACTS:
- Lived 4th Century AD
- Birth Place:
(modern Turkey)- Patron Saint of:
Brides
Unmarried Girls
Russia
Travelers
Sailors
Maritime Navigators- Feast Day:
- Identified with Santa Claus
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