Who is St.Nicholas and why is everyone talking about him?
That was the question many people I know were asking when we started talking about St.Nick coming to our house, so I decided to write up a quick post. There are many stories that have been told over the years about St. Nicholas. Our boys are excited for the arrival of St.Nick in just a couple of days, and this is why…
Who is St. Nicholas?
Saint Nicholas was a historic 4th century saint and Greek Bishop of Myra. He had a reputation for secret gift-giving. It is said that he would put coins in the shoes of those who left them out for him. Some would leave shoes and others would leave socks (stockings), hence the start of the tradition of hanging stockings.
Nicholas was born a Greek and lived in Myra. He was the only son and his parents were very wealthy Christians. He was very religious from a very early age, and was raised to obey Jesus’ words to “sell what you own and give the money to the poor.” Sadly, his parents died in an epidemic while Nicholas was still young and he was raised by his uncle–also known as Nicholas–who was the bishop of Patara. Nicholas used his whole inheritance to assist the needy, sick and suffering people. He dedicated his whole life to serving God. He soon became known throughout the land for his generosity to people in need and for his love of children and his concern for everyone.
Because of his faith (and because not everyone had the same strong faith), he was persecuted, exiled and imprisoned. Would you believe that the prisons were so full of bishops, priests and deacons that there was no room for the real criminals—murders, thieves and robbers? CRAZY!
When Nicholas was released from prison, he died shortly after, on December 6th. The anniversary of his death became a day of celebration, St.Nicholas Day, December 6th.
It is said that the tradition of Saint Nicholas Day, usually on December 6th, is a festival for children in many countries in Europe related to surviving legends of the saint, and particularly his reputation as the bearer of gifts. Americans Santa Claus derive from these legends.
Do you celebrate Saint Nicholas Day?
If so, what do your children receive on this day?
Our children wake to stockings filled with fruits and a very small stocking stuffer (toy–toothbrush or something along this line).
I had never heard that story but I think that is very interesting. It may be a tradition that we start in our house as well!!
My boys have a lot of fun with it!