UK December 6, according to the New Julian Calendar (adhered to by the Orthodox Church of Ukraine), marks one of the brightest and most beloved holidays of the year — the Commemoration Day of Saint Nicholas, Archbishop of Myra in Lycia, the Wonderworker. This day, long considered the beginning of the winter holiday cycle, is filled with anticipation of miracles, gifts, and unwavering faith in the triumph of good.
The Story of the Saint: Life, Not Legend
Saint Nicholas was born in the 3rd century in the city of Patara (Asia Minor) to a wealthy and devout family. His entire life was dedicated to serving God and the people, making him the embodiment of mercy and secret charity.
Unlike many saints who were glorified through their suffering, Nicholas became famous for his love and assistance.
The Three Bags of Gold
The most famous deed of the saint, which began the tradition of giving, was the rescue of three sisters from shame and poverty. Their father, an impoverished merchant, planned to sell his daughters into servitude because he had no money for a dowry.
Nicholas, not wishing to humiliate the family with open charity, secretly tossed bags of gold through the window of their house on three separate nights. These funds allowed the girls to marry and saved the family from a tragic fate. This act became the basis for the image of the saint as a secret gift-giver and patron of children and the needy.
The Wonderworker and Patron
After the death of his parents, Nicholas distributed his entire inheritance and became a priest, and later, the Archbishop of Myra. He became famous as:
-
Rescuer at Sea: He is considered the patron saint of sailors, as he repeatedly saved the drowning and helped travellers during his lifetime.
-
Defender of the Unjustly Condemned: His intercession was always on the side of the wronged and those wrongly sentenced.
-
Pillar of Orthodoxy: Nicholas was a participant in the First Ecumenical Council in 325 AD, where he courageously defended the purity of the Christian faith.
🎁 Holiday Traditions in Ukraine: From Miracle to Charity
In Ukraine, the Feast of Saint Nicholas has always held special significance, turning into a day dedicated to children, joy, and philanthropy.
-
Gifts Under the Pillow (or in a Boot): The main tradition. Children believe that during the night, Saint Nicholas travels the world and brings presents to well-behaved children, leaving them under the pillow or in a specially prepared boot or stocking. Naughty children might find a rizochka (rod — a symbolic warning).
-
Saint Nicholas Day is a Celebration of Kindness: Traditionally, it is customary to help orphans, the sick, and the needy on this day. Adults often become "Nicholas' helpers," organizing charitable events and collections.
-
Beginning of Carols: In some regions, Saint Nicholas Day marks the start of winter festivities and the first attempts at caroling.
-
Nativity Fast: It is important to remember that the Nativity Fast is still observed on December 6. Although Saint Nicholas Day is a major holiday and the fasting rules are relaxed (fish is allowed), general restrictions remain.
New Date, Unchanging Miracle
With the Orthodox Church of Ukraine's transition to the New Julian Calendar, the date of celebration moved from December 19th to December 6th. This change not only unified the Ukrainian church calendar with most Orthodox churches worldwide but also helped clearly distinguish between secular New Year figures (Ded Moroz, Santa Claus) and the true image of the Ukrainian Saint Nicholas — a historical figure and a model of mercy.
December 6 is an opportunity not only to receive a gift but also to become part of Nicholas's miracle yourself.
