Saint Nicholas

Background

Born in the third century on March 15, Saint Nicholas became known for his strong Christian faith and generosity and has become a patron saint to many people and churches in Europe. He was an only child and was born into a wealthy family in the village of Patara in Asia Minor, which is now known as the southern coast of Turkey. Nicholas’s parents, who died in an epidemic, raised him to be a dedicated Christian. After his parent’s death, Nicholas was taken in by his uncle as he was still a child. Obedient to God’s commands to help those in need, Nicholas used his entire inheritance from his parent’s death to help the sick and the poor. He soon became known for his generosity, love for children, and his strong Christian faith.

Nicholas traveled to Egypt and Palestine while still a child, and upon his return to Myra, he became a bishop. During the Roman Empire, Nicholas was exiled and imprisoned for five years by the Roman Emperor, Diocletian, who was known for his merciless execution of Christians. Despite being imprisoned and tortured, Saint Nicholas stood strong in his faith. In 325 A.D., the religious leader was released from prison. Following his release, he attended the first Council of Nicaea — a council aimed at preserving the Christian faith and unity of the church that was threatened by those with non-Christian beliefs.

Before Nicholas died on December 6, 343 A.D., there are various legends surrounding his work. Apart from being a respectful religious leader, he was known for rescuing three young girls from being sold into prostitution by leaving a sack of gold coins at their window, so that their father could pay a dowry, or marriage settlement, for each of his daughters to find husbands. Another legend tells the story of how he saved three innocent soldiers from being executed, and resurrected three children who have been murdered by a butcher who planned to sell their cooked body parts as pork.

Nicholas’ remains were buried in his Cathedral churchyard after his death. In 1087, the remains of Nicholas were illegally removed from the church by Italian merchants and taken to Bari, Italy. His skeletal bones, or relics, have been acquired by many churches worldwide. Today, the anniversary of his death is celebrated every year on December 6, known as St Nicholas Day. On this day, children receive gifts and share riddles and legends about the inspirational third-century Saint.