Saint Nicholas

The Feast of St. Nicholas

December 6th

Many legends exist about Patron Saint Nicholas. His story of giving to the needy is shared during our family dinner on the eve of December 6th.  Personalized stockings are hung and a small display is assembled in anticipation of Saint Nicholas's arrival.  In addition, our family makes plans to assist others in need. 

The Story of Saint Nicholas

"abbreviated version"
 The folklore below is the foundation of the
story we share about Patron Saint Nicholas.

 

A poor man had three beautiful daughters but could not afford a proper dowry for any of them. This meant these young women would remain unmarried and in years to come would be enslaved. Hearing of the women's plight, Nicholas decided to anonymously intervene.  Nicholas went, under cover of night, and threw three purses filled with gold coins through an open window.  The purses landed in the young women's shoes.  Saint Nicholas's act of generosity provided each daughter with a dowry and saved them from a life of destitution.

In the spirit of Saint Nicholas, Brase gets a little gift on the morning of December 6th.  The oranges symbolise the three purses filled with gold coins.