Nicholas of Myra was born around the year 270 in modern-day Turkey to wealthy Christian parents. His uncle was a bishop and ordained Nicholas to the priesthood. Eventually ordained a bishop, it is said St. Nicholas was an attendee of the Council of Nicaea, and he is credited with many miracles. His association with care for children comes from a story where a poor widower had three daughters. He couldn’t afford to pay the dowry so they could get married, so one night Nicholas anonymously threw three bags of gold coins through an open window of the family’s home, thus saving the girls from a life of prostitution.
CHALLENGE
When the Protestant Reformation got rid of the veneration of saints, they missed the traditions of St. Nicholas and created Father Christmas and Santa Claus. So revive the traditions of St. Nicholas. Is there someone you know with children who is unable to provide them with a good Christmas? Give them an anonymous gift from St. Nicholas. If you can’t think of anyone, then give generously to Toys For Tots. You can find a donation location at www.toysfortots.org
A print copy of The Saint Challenge is a great Christmas gift for a family member or friend. Buy your copy today to ensure delivery by Christmas!
