Saint Nicholas: The Bishop Behind a Familiar Name
Video: "St. Nicholas" by Presvytera Katie, used via YouTube embed.
Most children have heard of Santa Claus long before they hear of Saint Nicholas — but Santa Claus began as a real man, a bishop of the Church who lived in the city of Myra, in what is now Turkey, about seventeen hundred years ago.
Nicholas became known for his quiet generosity. The most famous story tells of a poor father with three daughters and no money for their dowries — without it, in that time and place, they might never have been able to marry. Nicholas heard of the family's need and, rather than announce his gift publicly, went at night and secretly left gold for the father to find. He did this not once but three times, one for each daughter, always without being seen or thanked.
This is why Saint Nicholas is remembered above all as a saint of quiet kindness — giving not to be noticed, but simply because someone was in need. He was also known for his firm defense of the Orthodox faith: he was present at the great council that gave us the Nicene Creed, the same Creed still said in every Divine Liturgy today.
Every December, the Church remembers Saint Nicholas on his feast day. Many Orthodox families use the day to talk with their children about generosity that isn't for show — leaving a small gift quietly, giving to someone in need without being asked, learning that the best kindness is often the kind no one sees.
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