The Feast of Saint Nicholas - A Tradition at Saint Mark

Shoes line the hallway, while students in kindergarten through fourth grade make their way to the gym for a secret assembly.  Melissa Chambers, Vice-President of Faith & Academics, poses a few questions to a captive audience, “does anyone know what today is and why are you only wearing one shoe?”  As the children shout “Feast of St. Nicholas” who should arrive but Saint Nicholas himself!  

Monsignor Richard Bellow appears adorned in a beautiful red ensemble fit for a saint!  Meanwhile, volunteers are placing chocolate coins and a St. Nicholas bookmark in the abandoned shoes left outside the classrooms.

Why celebrate? To learn about the true St. Nicholas: the man of faith who lived his life in devotion to Christ. Saint Nicholas loved children and cared for the needy. Throughout the centuries many stories and legends have been told of St. Nicholas' life and deeds. He has continued to be venerated by Catholics and Orthodox and honored by Protestants. By his example of generosity to those in need, especially children, St. Nicholas continues to be a model for the compassionate life.   

Each year on December 6, St. Mark students imitate the European custom of placing shoes by the fireplace hoping St. Nicholas will leave them chocolates, small gifts, and riddles.

Monsignor finally asks the students what gift they think Jesus would like for Christmas.  One student answers a train, another, a toy car.  Monsignor reminds the students that Jesus would like us to offer acts of kindness to one another.  Upon leaving the assembly each student places a golden strip of paper in the nativity manger.  On this tiny paper is written their personal act of kindness, one that they will practice this Christmas season.

Saint Nicholas brings the love of Christ and the healing of Jesus. When we honor Saint Nicholas, following his example of selfless giving, we honor the Christ Child who selflessly gave the greatest gift of all—himself.