St. Nicholas was born during the third century in what is now Turkey. He came from a very wealthy, Christian family and was an only child. He was raised to be devout so he spent most of his time practicing his faith and serving the poor. Many days he could be found sharing what he had with the poor, even giving them his clothes and food. He particularily focused on poor children.
An epidemic struck his small village and killed his parents. As an orphan, he inherited his parents vast wealth. He continued to help the needy and with his vast inheritance, he was able to do even more. He no longer wore his fine clothes; he gave them away too.
At Christmas time he would leave a small gift on the doorstep of every child in his village. It was always a surprise and the children didn't know who gave them the gifts. Once a certain man was about to abandon his daughters to a life of sin because they did not have the money for a dowry. Nicholas heard about the problem and tossed a pouch of gold through a window. He did the samething for the second daughter. The grateful father kept watch to catch the person who was so generous. When he came the third time, the man recognized Nicholas. He thanked perfusely. He was given the name Santa Claus as people retold the story over and over again.
St. Nicholas died in Myrs, a great basilica was built over his tomb. Many churches were dedicated in his name. His city later became famous as well. Nicholas teaches us to have a generous heart
There are many traditioned celebrated about St Nicholas throughout Europe an the rest of the world.
Ron