Originally published at Churchpop
Saint Nicholas of Myra, a fourth-century bishop, is a well-loved saint in the Catholic Church. We celebrate Saint Nicholas Day on December 6.
Aside from his reputation as the real Santa Claus, and the fact that he was an incredible miracle worker from birth, Saint Nicholas is also remembered for defending the faith against heresy during the First Council of Nicaea. Let’s just say it got physical.
But did you know Saint Nicholas is the patron saint of children?
Many stories and legends explain why he was given this title, which resulted in parents seeking his intercession specifically for causes related to their children.
According to EWTN,
“Saint Nicholas is esteemed a patron of children because he was from his infancy a model of innocence and virtue, and to form that tender age to sincere piety was always his first care and delight.”
His connection to children is also related to his reputation for secret gift-giving.
One of the most famous stories associated with Saint Nicholas involves three impoverished sisters.
Legend states that over a series of evenings, Saint Nicholas threw bags of gold into their window to ensure that their poor father could provide them with dowries, thus, saving them from forced prostitution.
Another gruesome story earning
