Feast of Saint Nicholas

Today the Catholic Church celebrates the life and times of a godly man named Nicholas who became a bishop of Myra in Asia Minor in the fourth century. He saved a man from having to give his three daughters over to prostitution by throwing three bags of gold into his window as a dowry for each one. This act of charity became legendary and his popularity spread worldwide. The Feast of Saint Nicholas was eventually melded into the Christmas season as part of the celebration of the season. The idea of giving gifts may have come from this Saint. St. Nicholas' name was eventually shortened to become Santa Claus who is a bit better known than his original namesake St. Nicholas.

When we see the icons of St. Nicholas displayed, we can thank God for this godly man who lived his faith and set a great example of charity that continues from the fourth century to the present day.

Saint Nicholas, we ask you to intercede for us to God so that this world will turn it's eyes away from materialism to the greatest gift of all, Jesus Christ, God's gift to the world.