SAINT NICHOLAS-A SAINT FOR ALL
SEASONS
The historical facts
And the legends of Saint
Nicholas
Are-in fact-intertwined
What we know for sure
Is that
He was Bishop of Myra
And may or may not
Have been instrumental
In the council of Nicea in 325
He became widely known
In the East-and that was increased
By an account of a fictitious biographer
And his legend
Began to spread to the West
In the 10th century
Many have claimed him
As their patron Saint
Including children-sailors-unmarried girls-
Merchants-pawnbrokers-and perfumiers
It is believed
He saved three girls from prostitution
By throwing 3 bags of money
Through their windows
To provide dowries
So they could get married
It is believed
That this is the basis
Of three gold bars
As the pawnbrokers sign
It is believed
He raised three boys
After they were murdered by a butcher
And that he saved three men
Unjustly condemned to death
As well as
Three sailors lost at sea
Off the coast of Turkey
Many churches
Are named after him
And he is believed to be
The most painted Saint
Other than the Blessed Mother
The most popular result
Of his cult
Is the belief that Saint Nicholas
Is responsible for the origins of Santa Claus
This is based on
Nicholas’ love of children
And his giving them gifts
Nicholas remains
A very popular name
As well as its many variations including:
Colic-Nicola-Nicolette-and many others
So this December 6th
On his feast day
Let us all remember
That giving is NOT just for Christmas
But ALL YEAR round
And Nicholas is not just a Christmas Saint
BUT A SAINT FOR ALL SEASONS
Robert P. Wallman
12-6-6
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