Santa Claus and Saint Nicholas

Many of us get so wrapped up with Santa Claus that we neglect to remember that he is based on a real person. Santa is not just a pagan symbol, as many claim, but based on Saint Nicholas, Bishop of Myra.

The following information is gathered from the St. Nicholas Center.

The true story of Santa Claus begins with Nicholas, who was born during the third century in the village of Patara. At the time the area was Greek and is now on the southern coast of Turkey. His wealthy parents, who raised him to be a devout Christian, died in an epidemic while Nicholas was still young. Obeying Jesus' words to "sell what you own and give the money to the poor," Nicholas used his whole inheritance to assist the needy, the sick, and the suffering. He dedicated his life to serving God and was made Bishop of Myra while still a young man. Bishop Nicholas became known throughout the land for his generosity to the those in need, his love for children, and his concern for sailors and ships.

Children around the world know and love St. Nicholas-for he brings gifts and treats in December. He is known by different names—and even looks different from place to place. But, it is the same St. Nicholas who delights with small surprises and good things to eat. Nicholas gave in secret, alert to others' needs, and expecting nothing for himself in return. It is this selfless generosity which seeks only the good of the other that made Nicholas' gifts the gifts of a saint.

But Santa and St. Nicholas are still different. Again from the St. Nicholas Center:

Santa Claus belongs to childhood; St. Nicholas models for all of life.

Santa Claus, as we know him, developed to boost Christmas sales—the commercial Christmas message; St. Nicholas told the story of Christ and peace, goodwill toward all—the hope-filled Christmas message.

Santa Claus encourages consumption; St. Nicholas encourages compassion.

Santa Claus appears each year to be seen and heard for a short time; St. Nicholas is part of the communion of saints, surrounding us always with prayer and example.

Santa Claus flies through the air—from the North Pole; St. Nicholas walked the earth—caring for those in need.

Santa Claus, for some, replaces the Babe of Bethlehem; St. Nicholas, for all, points to the Babe of Bethlehem.

Santa Claus isn't bad; St. Nicholas is just better.

Our family still celebrates Santa Claus. In fact yesterday we visited Santa at the mall. We took Mom Mom & Pop Pop along, and Daddy came and met us at lunch time. The boys were great as they met the guy who will bring presents on Christmas morning.

But we also celebrate St. Nicholas. Last night we all attended the St. Nicholas celebration at our church. We were reminded of the story of St. Nicholas, and his work to help the needy. The children decorated a tree with fun and warm gifts for the children of Greenville.

What I like most about St. Nicholas is his belief in giving while receiving nothing in return. That includes recognition. I have heard so many people say, "When I give a donation, I want them to know it was ME who gave the donation!" Or "Santa only brings my children something small and the big stuff comes from us. After all, I don't want Santa getting all the credit."

But to me this is selfish. This is not what giving is about. Giving is about changing another person's life, not patting yourself on the back (and expecting others to do so as well).

So this Christmas season, it is okay to celebrate Santa. But try to celebrate St. Nicholas as well. Do something for someone else... anonymously. You very well may change their life, and that should be the biggest reward of all.