When Saint Nicholas Raised 3 Boys From the Dead: The Legend Behind the Patron Saint of Children
Every year on December 6, the Catholic Church celebrates the feast of Saint Nicholas of Myra, also known as Saint Nicholas Day.
Saint Nicholas was a Catholic Bishop of the third and fourth centuries, and the man also known as “Santa Claus."
There are not many proven historical details about his life, just those passed down through the centuries.
Many legends surround his life, but one particular story earned him the title of protector and patron saint of children.
Paintings often depict Saint Nicholas with three young boys standing inside a barrel. But why?
According to the legend, three boys played in a field during harvest. However, they wandered into the city and got lost, unable to make it home. They then stopped at a butcher shop and asked for food and a place to sleep.
The butcher then murdered the three boys and kept the remains in a barrel. Seven years later, Saint Nicholas knocked on the butcher’s door and said, “Open your large salting tub!”
Saint Nicholas then said, “Rise up, children.” Some accounts say he made the Sign of the Cross as he miraculously resurrected the boys.
According to French legend, the butcher then became Saint Nicholas’ servant. However, because this is a legend and not an actual historical account, various versions were passed on through the centuries.
Click here to learn more about this legend of Saint Nicholas.
Prayer to Saint Nicholas During Advent
Good Saint Nicholas,
Help us prepare for the miracle of the coming of Jesus.
Help us not to be blind to the gifts of getting ready.
Help us be sincere in the greetings we send and receive, with love and prayer.
Kind Saint Nicholas, protect us from shoppers' fatigue, stress, overspending,
yet help us to be kind and generous of heart to all,
especially those who are alone, financially poor and fearful.
May our celebration of your feast lead others to see the true meaning of giving and receiving and to guide all people to
The greatest of all gifts, even Jesus Christ, prince of peace and child of Mary, Our Lord and only saviour.
Amen.
Prayer Source: Little Office of Saint Nicholas/St. Nicholas Center