Hierarch · 3rd–4th century
Nicholas
Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker, Archbishop of Myra in Lycia
New Calendar December 6 Old Calendar December 19
Why they are a saint
Nicholas is remembered as archbishop of Myra, famed for secret almsgiving, defense of the innocent, and countless wonders at sea and on land. He is one of the most beloved saints in East and West. The years given for this life are 3rd–4th century.
Life
Saint Nicholas was born in Patara in Lycia, on the south coast of Asia Minor, the only son of pious parents, Theophanes and Nonna. His uncle, Bishop Nicholas of Patara, ordained him reader and then priest. He gave all his inheritance to the poor, always trying to keep his charity secret. The best-known story tells how he saved a ruined man's three daughters from shame by secretly throwing gold through the window at night, so that they could be honourably married.
Chosen Bishop of Myra in Lycia, he was known for gentleness, kindness and love for people. During the persecution under Diocletian he was imprisoned with other Christians, whom he strengthened to endure. In 325 he took part in the First Ecumenical Council and stood against the heretic Arius.
Many miracles are recorded in his life: he delivered three men unjustly condemned to death, saved Myra from famine by sending a merchant with grain, and rescued many from drowning and captivity. He fell asleep in the Lord in old age. His relics remained incorrupt and gave forth healing myrrh, and in 1087 they were transferred to Bari in Italy, where they rest today.
Sources: OCA Lives of the Saints. Retold in our own words.
Traditional patronage
The patron of travellers; he is prayed to for deliverance from floods, poverty and every misfortune.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Patron of sailors, travelers, merchants, children, students, the poor, the falsely accused, Russia, Greece, many seaports, because of the sea stories in his life and he taught and wrote in defence of the faith.
Prayer
O holy Nicholas, pray to God for us.
A short general prayer to a saint, not a liturgical text. No public-domain troparion for this saint is included.
Do not confuse with Nicholas of Japan; Nicholas Cabasilas; Blessed Nicholas of Pskov; many New Martyr Nicholases.