He Saint Nicholas of Bari Day is commemorated every December 6a date that highlights the figure of the 4th century bishop. He is considered the patron saint of children, sailors and travelers, remembered for his generous and compassionate spirit. He is known for his charitable gestures and thanks to his habit of giving gifts and concern for the little ones, he inspired the modern character of Santa Claus.
Also known as Saint Nicholas of Mirawas born in the year 270 in Lucia, present-day Türkiye. The name “Nicholas” comes from the Greek and refers to “protector and defender of the people.” He lost his parents after an epidemic, so he inherited a fortune that he decided to share with the poor. Inspired by faith, Saint Nicholas He entered a monastery where he was ordained a priest and carried out pilgrimages to Egypt and Palestine. Upon returning from these trips, he settled in Mira, where he was appointed bishop.
However, he was arrested due to the persecution of Christians. He remained in captivity until the year 313, with the emergence of the Edict of Milan. There are many stories that tell of his kindness and devotion to helping others.
It is considered the patron saint of children, sailors and travelers. Some of the just causes in which he intervened were, after experiencing an epiphany in a dream, the request to Emperor Constantine to free three innocent soldiers. Other stories associate him with sailors, whom he helped during a storm. As for the little ones, it is said that he managed to bring three children back to life.
Saint Nicholas of Bari died on December 6although it is not known with certainty whether in 345 or 352. His remains rest in Bari since 1087, where the people remember the “Manna di S. Nicola”, the myrrh that flowed from his body and was considered a sign of virtue. Over time, his figure and closeness with the little ones led to the creation of the modern character currently known as Santa Claus, Father Christmas or in some countries as Saint Nicholas.
Like many other figures of Catholicism, Saint Nicholas of Bari has his own Novena, a series of prayers that are carried out for nine days to request his intervention. There are also other prayers to request your help:
Oh blessed Saint Nicholas of Bari! Whom God has glorified with countless miracles, manifesting his will that we turn to you, in the difficult moments of our lives, trusting in your protection.
Oh wonder of charity! To which families, the poor, the sick, merchants, employees, prisoners, children, maidens in danger come; I humbly ask you to grant me the grace that I expect from you, confident in your invaluable protection, which you never deny to your devotees, so that, favored by your goodness, we may sing once again the mercies of the Lord, and the wonders of his saints. Most Provident Saint Nicholas! Don’t abandon me.
Amen
