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- An important church holiday - Memorial Day of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker: miracles of the saint, what to pray for just today
An important church holiday - Memorial Day of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker: miracles of the saint, what to pray for just today
Every year, believing Christians of the Eastern Rite celebrate the Memorial Day of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker on December 19. Catholics celebrate the event earlier, on December 6 according to the Gregorian calendar. St. Nicholas is one of the most and favorite venerated among Christians, he is the patron saint of children, military, merchants and travelers. In the people his image became the prototype of the Christmas wizard Santa Claus. Read more about the life of the saint, the day of memory and prayers to Nicholas the Wonderworker - in the material "Izvestia".
Brief biography and miracles of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker
St. Nicholas the Wonderworker lived in the III century, he is one of the most revered Christian saints. He is also called Nicholas the Worshipper and Nicholas of Myra.
Nicholas was born around 270 in the city of Patara in Lycia (the territory of modern Turkey), in a wealthy and pious family. His parents - Theophanes and Nonna - for a long time could not have children, but one day their prayers were heard and the Lord granted them a son.
From an early age Nicholas showed love for prayer and piety, striving to help people. After the death of his parents, Nicholas received a large inheritance, but gave it away to the poor, devoting his life to serving God.
Fragment of a copy of the fresco "St. Nicholas the Wonderworker"
In his youth he decided to become a priest and was ordained by his uncle, the Bishop of Patara. Afterward, Nicholas lived and served as bishop in the city of Miry (modern Demre, Turkey). This is why the name Nicholas of Myra became fixed for him.
One of the most famous miracles of Nicholas is associated with a poor man who could not marry off his three daughters due to lack of dowry. So the man decided to capitalize on their beauty. Having learned about this, Nicholas secretly planted a sack of gold in the poor man's house at night. With these funds, the man was able to marry off one daughter. Later Nicholas planted two more sacks, and both daughters were able to marry with a dowry.
Nicholas the Wonderworker died around 345-351. His relics became the source of numerous miracles. In 1087, the saint's relics were transferred to the city of Bari, Italy, where they are believed to be located today. The relics of St. Nicholas are myrrh-colored, so they are an object of pilgrimage.
That said, last week Turkish archaeologists announced that they had allegedly discovered his tomb in Demre, where St. Nicholas served. However, to confirm or deny this, it will take at least a few more months and at least some inscription testifying to the ownership of the tomb.
In Orthodoxy, St. Nicholas Day is celebrated on December 19. On this day people pray for help in troubles, protection on the road, health and family welfare.
St. Nicholas is a prototype of Santa Claus and even, in part, - Santa Claus.
What pray to St. Nicholas the Wonderworker today: strong prayers
Nicholas the Wonderworker is one of the most revered saints in Christianity, especially in the Orthodox tradition. People turn to him with prayers for help in difficult life situations, protection and healing. Believers go to churches for services dedicated to St. Nicholas.
St. Nicholas is known for his miracles, so he is often asked for a way out of difficult situations, be it family, financial or work problems. He is also the patron saint of travelers and sailors. In addition, prayers are sent to him for help in illnesses, both physical and mental, as well as for the well-being and health of children.
People facing injustice and persecution turn to St. Nicholas for support and restoration of justice. He helps those who are in poverty or need.
Prayer for help in a difficult situation:
"O All-Holy St. Nicholas the God-pleaser, the great God-pleaser, our fervent intercessor and everywhere in sorrows a speedy helper! Help me, sinful and despondent, in this present life, beseech the Lord God to grant me forgiveness of all my sins, that I have sinned from my youth in all my life, in deed, word, thought and all my feelings. And in the departure of my soul, help me, the penitent, beseech the Lord God, the Creator of all things, to deliver me from the taxation of the air and eternal torment, that I may always glorify the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and your merciful intercession, now and ever and unto ages of ages. Amen."
Prayer before traveling:
"O Sainted and Wonderworker Nicholas, remember us, servants of God (names), in your prayers to the Lord God, may He grant us a safe journey, protection from all evil, and a safe return home. Thou thyself, holy angel, be our companion, protector and guide on all our paths. We pray you, Nicholas the Wonderworker, protect us from troubles and misfortunes. Amen."
Prayer for children:
"O Great Benefactor of Christ, Holy Father Nicholas, patron of children and protector of all those who are wronged! We pray to you, show your mercy to our children (names). Protect them from all evil, guide them on the path of truth, give them health of mind and body, make them understand their deeds and actions. Strengthen their faith, teach them to love God and their neighbors. Do not leave us in our sorrows and anxieties, but be our comfort and joy. Amen."
Prayer for financial help:
"O great Saint Nicholas, during the days of your earthly life you helped the needy and comforted the sad. Please help me in my need (voice your request). I pray thee, merciful intercessor, help me to endure trials with dignity and find ways to well-being. Grant me wisdom, patience, and confidence in God's mercy. Amen."
Prayer for Justice:
"Holy Father Nicholas, our swift intercessor and helper in sorrows and offenses! In your lifetime you were the protector of those who suffer from injustice. I pray you to intercede for me (or another person) before the Lord and ask Him for a wise solution to my problem. May truth and justice prevail and the wrongdoers realize their actions. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."
Nicholas: the mystery of the name, character traits
The name Nicholas is of ancient Greek origin. It is formed from the words νίκη (nike) - "victory" and λαός (laos) - "people" and is interpreted as "victor of the peoples" or "victory of the people". The name was especially common among ancient Greek generals, philosophers, and statesmen.
The popularity of the name increased significantly after the appearance of St. Nicholas of Myra, known for his good deeds, mercy and miracles. Christians began naming children Nicholas, hoping that the saint would become their heavenly patron.
In the Middle Ages, the name Nicholas spread widely in Catholic and Orthodox countries. In France it was transformed into Nicolas, in Germany into Nikolaus, and in England and the United States into Nicholas.
In Russia, the name Nikolai became popular with the advent of Christianity in the 10th century. Saint Nicholas is one of the most revered saints in Russia. His image was associated with protection, generosity and wisdom.
Nicholas is a born leader, he is persistent and able to achieve his own, often sets high goals and persistently goes to them. This is a man who knows what he wants from life.
At the same time in the character of many Nicholas laid the desire to help others. Men with this name often show themselves as judicious people, ready to be responsible for their actions. They are characterized by analytical thinking and foresight.
Bearers of the name Nicholas easily find common language with people, are able to spread to themselves, which makes them successful in both personal life and in professional activities. They do not tolerate injustice and are able to stand up for the offended. Nicholas often becomes the protector of the weak.
Sometimes it is difficult for Nicholas to manage his emotionality, in critical situations he can be testy, although he quickly calms down. Sometimes can be excessively stubborn.
The name Nicholas corresponds to green and blue colors, as symbols of calmness, wisdom, confidence and harmony. Among plants, the talisman for Nikolaos is the maple - a symbol of strength and leadership.
In childhood, Nikolaos are inquisitive, kind and active. Often become leaders among peers, enjoy the authority of adults. In youth, bearers of the name strive for independence and try to find their place in life. They can be persistent in their studies and their own hobbies.
As an adult, Nicholas is a person who often achieves high results in his profession. He is suitable for such spheres as management, science, pedagogy or creativity.
The name Nicholas retains its popularity to this day, especially in Orthodox countries. The bearers of the name often leave a bright mark in the lives of others thanks to their strong character and good deeds.
St. Nicholas Day: why give gifts and make wishes
St. Nicholas Day is one of the most favorite winter holidays, especially for children. The tradition of giving gifts and making wishes is connected with the good deeds of St. Nicholas and his image as a protector and helper of the needy.
On the night before the holiday (December 18 in the Orthodox tradition or December 5 in the Catholic tradition), children put their boots, shoes or socks near the door or window, expecting St. Nicholas to put gifts there. It is believed that if the child behaved well, he received sweets, nuts or toys. If badly behaved - coal or a twig.
On this day, many people do good deeds: help the poor, make donations, prepare holiday treats for the needy. This reflects the spirit of generosity and mercy inherent in St. Nicholas.
Different countries have their own culinary traditions. For example, in Poland they bake special honey gingerbread in the shape of St. Nicholas or other figures. In Germany, "St. Nicholas" - sweet buns - are popular.
In some countries they organize children's plays dedicated to St. Nicholas, where stories about his life and miracles are told. In Russia, this day is especially loved by children. St. Nicholas is considered the patron saint of the family, so the holiday is held in a warm and heartfelt atmosphere.
In Germany and the Netherlands, St. Nicholas is called Sinterklaas. His assistant Krampus, or Black Pete, wears a sack to punish naughty children, and gives sweets to the obedient ones. In some regions of Italy, St. Nicholas is the patron saint of sailors, so there are processions by the water.
Today, St. Nicholas Day helps to preserve the tradition of good deeds, reminds of the importance of charity and care for neighbor. This holiday inspires not only children, but also adults to become a little kinder, share joy and perform small miracles for others.
