LAKE JAMES
NORTH CAROLINA
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LAKE JAMES NORTH CAROLINA
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Saint Nicholas, Bishop Bishop of Myra in Lycia in the 4th century, Saint Nicholas is one of the most popular saints in both the Eastern and Western Churches, although very little is actually known about him. It is believed that he was imprisoned during the persecution of Christians initiated by the Emperor Diocletian, but afterward was released. He was already honored as a Saint by the sixth century. How far the Church had come is shown in the fact that one of Nicholas’ most enthusiastic supporters in claiming sainthood for him was no less than the Emperor Justinian!
[From various sources – A. T. K. Z.+]
A Collect for the Feast of Saint Nicholas the Bishop Almighty God, in your love you gave your servant Nicholas of Myra a perpetual name for deeds of kindness both on land and sea; Grant, we pray, that aided by his prayers, your Church may never cease to work for the happiness of children, the safety of sailors, the relief of the poor, and the help of those tossed by tempests of doubt or grief; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. ---------------------------------- To learn more about St. Nicholas from the Saint Nicholas Centre, click here. To read the story of the 'Miracle of the Grain', click here.
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This page last modified on Friday, April 11, 2008 09:40 PM |
He
became a highly venerated figure in England and by the eleventh century, some
400 churches were dedicated to him. Saint Nicholas is considered to be the
Patron Saint of sailors, and churches named for him were often built in coastal
locations where they could be seen by those at sea and so functioned as
landmarks helping with navigation. He is also the Patron Saint of children and,
in some countries, he is said to bring gifts on his Feast Day, December 6th.
The idea of his being the bearer of presents to children was brought to the
United States by Dutch colonists in New York. Their name “Sint Nicolaas” became
“Sinterklaas” and then “Santa Claus.” The tradition of his giving gifts to
children in this country is celebrated at Christmas, December 25th.
In addition, St. Nicholas is the Patron Saint of Russia and also of Pawnbrokers!