The Life of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker

Known especially for his generous spirit and great love for the poor and needy, St. Nicholas lived in the region of Lycia in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), becoming bishop of Myra. His wealthy, faithful Christian parents Theophanes and Nonna raised him with their bishop-uncle Nicholas in Patara.

A celebrated story illustrates his generosity: He threw the sack through the window into the house, and, as some say, it landed in the stocking, or shoe, of the eldest daughter. Nicholas secretly provided gold for three daughters facing destitution and forced marriage.

During pilgrimage travel, St. Nicholas foresaw that the ship on which he sailed would face a dangerous storm. Through his prayers, he averted disaster and miraculously healed a gravely injured sailor, establishing him as patron of travelers and seafarers.

Returning to Lycia, Nicholas settled in Myra where he was selected bishop through divine revelation. The bishop asked his name, and he humbly told him, “My name is Nicholas.”

As bishop, he defended his flock fiercely. Gentle towards the lowly, he was a fierce adversary of those who would harm his spiritual children. He endured Diocletian’s persecution and imprisonment, continuing pastoral ministry to fellow Christians in chains.

At the 325 Council of Nicea, when Arius refused to be convinced by the pious teaching of the many holy fathers, Nicholas boldly opposed the heresy, even striking Arius.

Another account describes his courage: Just as they were about to be executed, the bishop arrived at the scene, grabbed the sword of the executioner, which was poised to come down on the neck of one of the men. He saved three falsely convicted men and exposed a corrupt governor’s bribery.

After a gloriously God-pleasing life, he fell asleep peacefully in the Lord. His body remained incorrupt, and exuded fragrant myrrh. In 1087, his relics moved from Myra to Bari, Italy.

St. Nicholas is a popular patron Saint throughout the world, serving as a protector and intercessor for children, as well as for all those in dire need, those falsely accused or convicted, those in prison, and those who travel by land, sea or air.

O Holy Father Nicholas, pray to God for us!