Saint Nicholas

Saint Nicholas was born around 270 in the seaport of Patara in Lycia, in Asia Minor (today in Turkey), to a wealthy Christian family. Orphaned during an epidemic, he is remembered for giving away his inheritance to the poor and for a life marked by prayer, mercy, and courageous faith. Tradition says he journeyed in pilgrimage to Egypt and the Holy Land, and on returning was chosen as Bishop of Myra. Though the details of his life come to us through later accounts, the Church has long venerated him as “the Wonderworker” for miracles attributed to his intercession. Beloved stories tell of his secret generosity to save three young women from ruin by providing their dowries, of his aid to sailors in perilous storms, and of his defense of the innocent against unjust punishment. His quiet gift-giving helped inspire the later folklore of “Saint Nick,” yet his true legacy is steadfast charity rooted in Christ. Saint Nicholas is honored as a patron of sailors, children, and many cities, including Aberdeen and Alicante. His feast day is December 19.