December 19th on the Julian Calendar

St. Nicholas Day is celebrated in many ways—the stately bishop may

lead a town parade,

be commemorated in saint's day worship,

visit schools, hospitals and homes or provide the focus for a party,

come under cover of night to leave sweet treats and small gifts for children.  

Parade Castricum, the Netherlands Photo: P Van Trigt

St. Nicholas Day Worship Sint-Nicolaaskerk, Sint Niklaas, Belgium Photo: G Vandenheide

School Visit St. Hilary School Fairlawn, Ohio

Under Cover of Night Postcard, Belgium St Nicholas Center Collection

However he comes, Saint Nicholas reminds us that giving is more important than receiving, and doing for others is the faithful way to live.

Long live St. Nicholas!