St. Nicholas Day (December 6th) resources

One of the great Saint's days of the Christian year is the Feast of St. Nicholas on December 6th. It is celebrated by Catholics, Anglicans, and Orthodox (at least the ones who are not on the Julian calendar) on the same day. Other Protestant denominations like some Lutherans and others utilize it as well, assuming they recognize individual saints in some context. 

Most everyone is familiar with Santa Claus. His image is everywhere this time of year in one capacity or another, at least in the Western world. Even in places like Japan and India, you often see jolly old Saint Nick in some form. Most people don't realize Santa Claus is Saint Nicholas. 'Sinter Klaas' was the Dutch words for Saint Nicholas, and was adopted early on (and Anglicized) by early American colonists when New York City was originally Dutch before being taken over the British and later the Americans after the Revolution. 

Santa quickly (or had already been) divorced from the historical Christian Bishop of Myra, and Santa became a completely secular figure. But his Christian roots are still there for all to see. Even the Coca-Cola classic Santa Claus still has elements of the imperial bishop's robes and mitre that Saint Nicholas of Myra would have worn. He is still associated with anonymous gift giving and merriment. 

Saint Nicholas of Myra, also known as Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker, is one of the most venerated saints in Christianity. He is believed to have been born around the year 270 in Patara, a city in Lycia (modern-day Turkey). His life and deeds have inspired numerous legends and traditions, particularly in relation to Christmas.

Nicholas was born into a wealthy family and was raised in the Christian faith. After the death of his parents when he was still young, he inherited a significant fortune. Rather than living a life of luxury, Nicholas chose to dedicate his life to God and the service of others. He became known for his piety and generosity, often using his wealth to help those in need.

Nicholas eventually became the Bishop of Myra, a position he held during a time when Christians faced persecution under the Roman Empire. His leadership was marked by a commitment to the faith, and he became known for his strong defense of orthodox Christian beliefs. He is often associated with the First Council of Nicaea in 325 AD, where he is said to have vigorously opposed the Arian heresy, which denied the divinity of Christ.

Saint Nicholas is renowned for his many miracles and acts of kindness, which have contributed to his reputation as a miracle worker. Some of the most famous legends include:

One of the most popular stories tells of a poor man with three daughters. Without a dowry, the daughters could not marry and faced a life of servitude. Nicholas secretly provided gold coins for each daughter, allowing them to marry. This act of generosity is often cited as the origin of the tradition of gift-giving during Christmas.
 

Another legend recounts how Nicholas saved sailors from a violent storm at sea. He prayed for their safety, and the storm calmed, demonstrating his intercessory power.
 

In a particularly dramatic story, Nicholas is said to have resurrected three children who had been murdered and pickled by a butcher. This miracle further solidified his reputation as a protector and helper of the innocent.
 

Saint Nicholas was canonized as a saint in the early Christian church, and his feast day is celebrated on December 6. This day is observed in various ways around the world, often involving the giving of gifts, reflecting his legacy of generosity. Saint Nicholas is considered the patron saint of various groups, including children, sailors, merchants, and those in need. His life and works continue to inspire acts of charity and kindness, particularly during the Christmas season.


If you are looking for resources for your parish newsletter or youth group, the St. Nicholas Center has all sorts of wonderful printouts and stories and such for free. I do recommend it. They have some marvelous ideas for having a St. Nicholas Day event in your home or at your parish or church school.