The Real St. Nicholas

[Pia Jesu]

Having recently been enlightened about the "real" St. Nicholas (by an Orthodox Byzantine priest who runs a Santa Claus workshop), I'd like to share that the jolly, bearded & bespeckled old fellow in a red suit--who grants Christmas wishes to good, little children--evolved from the heroic life of the 3rd. century Bishop of Myra.  He was exiled, imprisoned (tortured & blinded in one eye) for his faith--yet went on to attend the Council of Nicea.  See http://www.stnicholascenter.org/pages/who-is-st-nicholas/

So, the next time you hear a tune--like the Beach Boy's song about St. Nick--thank God for the saint's faith-filled and generous life!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zshSF3Za7LI