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Saint Nicholas
Optional memorial December 6Bishop

Saint Nicholas

The generous bishop of Myra who secretly gave gifts to the poor, the real saint behind Santa Claus.

Gerard David, Three Legends of Saint Nicholas, c. 1500 · National Galleries of Scotland (public domain)

Who was Saint Nicholas?

Nicholas was Bishop of Myra, in today's Turkey, in the 4th century. The best-known story says he secretly tossed bags of gold through a poor man's window so his three daughters would have dowries and could marry. His relics were taken to Bari, Italy, in 1087, where they are still venerated.

Feast day and traditions

On the night of December 5, children leave out shoes or stockings for Saint Nicholas to fill. The Dutch "Sinterklaas" became the American "Santa Claus". The three bags of gold are the origin of the three gold balls of the pawnbroker's sign.

Prayer

St. Nicholas, friend of children and the poor, teach me to give generously and in secret. Amen.

Novena

To pray a novena that ends on the eve of the feast, begin on November 27 and finish on December 5.

Mass readings

Read the Mass readings for December 6 from the US bishops (USCCB).

Open readings →

Celebrate as a family

Leave shoes by the door the night before and fill them with chocolate coins and a small gift.

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