St. Nicholas - Patron of Children, of Russia and Greece - December 6th
Nicholas is the great patron of children and of Christmas giving. The word “Santa Claus” is a short form of “Saint Nicholas.” He was born in Asia Minor, and after his parents died, he gave all his money to charity. Once a certain poor man was about to abandon his daughters to a life of sin because they did not have the money for a dowry. St. Nicholas heard about his problem, so at night, he threw a bag of gold in the man’s window. This was for the second daughter, and the grateful father kept watch to find out who was being so good to him. When St. Nicholas came a third time, the man recognized him and thanked him over and over again.
Later St. Nicholas became Bishop. He had great love for justice, and once he saved three men who had been falsely condemned to death. He then turned to their accuser and made him admit that he had been offered money to get rid of the three men.
St. Nicholas died in Myra, and a great basilica was built over his tomb. Many churches were dedicated in his name, and when his relics were brought to Bari in Italy, this city became a favorite shrine for pilgrims from all over Europe. He is also the patron of sailors, of prisoners, and with St. Andrew, the Patron of Russia.
To enter Heaven we must keep our soul without sin, or have washed clean again by sorrow and confession.
