Saint Nicholas

Who Was Saint Nicholas?
Saint Nicholas was born almost 2000 years ago.
He was from a place called Lycia, which is now known as Turkey.
He lived with his mother and father. He did not have any brothers or sisters.

When He Was Younger
Saint Nicholas was a kind boy from a very young age.
He shared his toys with his friends.
When he was young, his parents died. He went to live with his uncle who was a bishop.

Helping Those in Need
Saint Nicholas used the money left to him by his parents, to help people who were sick, poor or needy.
He dedicated his life to serving God.

Saint Nicholas and the Three Daughters
There are many stories that involve Saint Nicholas performing miracles.
One of the most famous stories is about three daughters.

Saint Nicholas and the Three Daughters
There once was a poor man who had three daughters.
He was so poor that he could not afford for the girls to marry. This brought shame to his family.

Saint Nicholas and the Three Daughters
Saint Nicholas overheard the poor man talking and wanted to help him.
He did not want to embarrass the man, so he watched him and the girls through the window until they went to bed.

Saint Nicholas and the Three Daughters
When the family were fast asleep, Saint Nicholas put three bags of gold coins into the girls’ stockings that were drying above the fireplace.

Saint Nicholas and the Three Daughters
The poor man woke the next morning and was delighted.
Saint Nicholas did not want any thanks for his generosity.
He was just pleased that the family were happy.

Patron Saint
A patron saint is a saint who is really special and looks after a certain group of people.
Saint Nicholas is the patron saint of sailors, archers and children.

Saint Nicholas Today
Saint Nicholas, who can also be called ‘Santa Claus’ or ‘Father Christmas’, is celebrated at Christmas time, as he brings gifts to children.
His generosity and spirit lives on and brings a smile to boys and girls around the world at Christmas time.