Jolly Old Saint Nicholas

 

Today we celebrate the feast of Saint Nicholas, the true Santa Claus (Saint ‘Claus). Today's feast is preceded by Krampusnacht. This is because on December 5th, St. Nicholas travels with Krampus, Santa rewards the good while Krampus punishes the naughty.  

The primary custom of this day is to place shoes outside the door for St. Nicholas to fill. This custom is the origin of Christmas stockings which takes root in the story of St. Nicholas throwing coins down the chimney which landed in the stockings of local children to assist their family in their financial concerns.

Today's liturgical color is white for the holiness of St. Nicholas. Today is a good day to watch any of the many movies about Santa Claus. A few I would recommend that are more fantasy but enjoyable are "The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus" or "Santa Claus is Comin' to Town". A more accurate depiction is the cartoon "Nicholas, the Boy Who Became Santa".

About Saint Nicholas

The Tomb of St. Nicholas

Virtual Tour of the Basilica of St. Nicholas 

The Real Face of Santa

Artwork of St. Nicholas* 

Song: Jolly Old Saint Nicholas

*(Unfortunately the final legend contains some elements that are antisemitic.)

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