The spirit of this day is a celebration of generosity and a very historical person. Saint Nicholas of Myra was a 4th century Greek bishop who also served the church in Finland. While he is the basis of Santa Claus, he was also very involved in church, theological disputes, and the rescue of children from being sold into slavery by impoverished parents who felt they had little to no other choice. As such, if I were to be a Catholic or Orthodox Christian, there is no doubt that he and St. Francis of Assisi would be my patron saints.

But of all the moments in his life that stand out to me, it makes me smile most in a very not so Christian moment in his life. In confronting a lying Gnostic at the Council of Nicaea, in 325, it is said he broke the nose of a particular Gnostic leader who tried to defame the divinity of Christ and otherwise insert errant doctrines into the statement of faith by point of force. I find that very relatable in my own imperfections. And honestly, it rings true that I would likely do this, too. The body of that Gnostic leader is said to have been exhumed and he did indeed have a broken nose.

Other stories about the real St. Nicholas have to do with his providing dowries so that young girls might get married (a common practice of that time) and bringing back at least three children from the dead. It is said that he originally used a mule to deliver presents to local orphanages. When he was transferred to Finland, reindeer were more useful in delivering such gifts. This became entwined with the legends of Santa Claus using reindeer to similarly deliver gifts.

Whatever the case, Nicholas died on December 6 in 343. Today, we remember his death with St. Nicholas Day. We at Aloha Promises Forever wish you and each of you and yours the very best of Happy St. Nicholas Days!