Saint Nicholas

By Teresa Rosa

Saint Nicholas is one of the most widely known saints especially around the holidays. But old Saint Nick did not start with a cap and black boots, he was actually a bishop! He lived in a province called Lycia, on the southwest coast of Asia Minor. He lived during the 4th century. He was born in Patara and traveled as a young man to Palestine and Egypt. And when he became a

bishop he left to Myra.

When Emperor Diocletian became ruler he persecuted the Christians and Nicholas was imprisoned. But he was released by Constantine the Great. He died somewhere around 1087.

The name Santa Claus came from the dutch word "Sinterklass" and the red outfit worn by Santa is really based on the red robe of a bishop! Did you ever wonder why another name for Santa is Kriss Kringle? Well, it comes from the word Christkindle (kindle meaning fire).

So, I hope this year you will remember who you are really sending your Christmas list to and that you should be a Christkindle to everyone you meet.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!