(Photo: Stained glass window in St. Nicholas Parish Church – Guisborough, England)

Yes world, there really is/was a Santa Claus. Or, a Saint Nicholas, as he was known in the 4th century. Known as the Bishop of Myra, Nicholas’ wealthy parents died when he was young leaving him financially secure. After being raised by an uncle and later ordained as a priest, Nicholas gained a reputation for helping the poor, especially children.

One story tells of a poor man who had three daughters. Without money for a dowry for each of his girls, the father knew his daughters would have no future, be unmarried, and have to resort to prostitution as a means of earning a living. Nicholas wanted to help, and during the middle of one night, threw three bags of gold coins (one for each daughter) through the window of the man’s house. Legend has it that one of the bags fell into a stocking hanging to dry by the fire. This act of kindness helped secure the girls a much different future.

Nicholas lived a life of generosity, helping those in need. He was even called Saint Nicholas before he died, giving rise to the legend children know today as Santa Claus.

So next time your kids ask that inevitable question, you can honestly say, “Yes, there really was/is a Santa Claus. He exists in our hearts, and represents the spirit of Christmas through giving and helping others. Merry Christmas everyone!