December 6

Saint Nicholas of Myra

Optional memorial · Remembered by Catholics, Anglicans and Lutherans

Bishop of Myra remembered for giving to the poor in secret

Nicholas was bishop of Myra, a port town in Lycia on the southern coast of today’s Turkey, probably in the fourth century. Very little about him can be confirmed. The earliest accounts were written long after his death, and much of what is told about him is legend.

The best-loved story says that a poor man in his town had no money for his three daughters’ dowries, and their future looked bleak. According to tradition, Nicholas came at night and tossed bags of gold through the window so that no one would know who had helped. Other stories tell of him rescuing sailors in storms.

In 1087 sailors from Bari, in southern Italy, carried his remains to their city, where they are still honoured. Devotion to him spread through East and West, and the Dutch “Sinterklaas” later grew into Santa Claus. Christians remember him as a pastor who gave quietly to people in need.

But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

Matthew 6:3–4 · BSB

A prayer

Generous God, you moved your servant Nicholas to care for the poor and to give without seeking thanks. Teach us to notice those in need around us, to share what we have with open hands, and to do good quietly, trusting that you see in secret. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.