Homily: Feast of St. Nicholas

Feast of St. Nicholas (Lk. 10:1-9) “St. Nicholas Patron of the Poor”

St. Nicholas lived in the 3rd century in present day Turkey. His parents were very wealthy and raised him to be a devout Christian. His parents died in an epidemic and he was left on his own. Nicholas sold all his possessions and gave them to the poor.

He eventually became a bishop. This was a time of great persecutions. Nicholas was chased from his diocese on several occasions. He persevered. He was known to be very pastoral. He had a soft spot in his heart for the poor, especially for poor children.

Stories abound about how he helped children in need. Even after his death he is credited for helping the needy. A story is told of a boy named Basilios. One night the people of Myra were celebrating the feast of St. Nicholos at the cathedral bearing his name.

Suddenly pirates attacked and the stole relics of St. Nicholas. They also kidnapped Basilios who was made a slave for the emir. Because he was unable to speak the local language, he was made the cup bearer of the nobleman. It was assumed that it would always be safe to talk about sensitive topics in front of the youth. The boy yearned to return home.

The next year as the feast of St. Nicholas approached the people of Myra once again began to celebrate. Basilios’ mother refused to take part because memories of her son depressed her. She wondered if he was dead and if she would see him again.

St. Nicholas appeared in a whirlwind and snatched Basilios out of the emir’s court transporting him home to his mother. He appeared cup in hand. His mother rejoiced at the great miracle. This story is one of the many that revolve around Nicholas helping children in great need.

As children throughout the world suffer this day from Ukraine to the Holy land let us all pray fervently for their welfare. Perhaps St. Nicholas can comfort all those children who weep and our separated from their mothers today.

Reflection Questions:

1.    Have I ever received a special gift on St. Nicholas Day? What was it?

2.   If I could assist a poor person today, who would it be? Would St. Nicholas be happy with the whole idea of Santa Claus?

Dear Parishioners,

          Advent is an appropriate time to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation. We are having extra times for Confessions. On Saturdays a priest will be available from 2:45 until 4 p.m. during Advent. On Monday December 18th we will have a communal reconciliation service. Several priests will be available to hear confessions.

          We also will have extra confession periods during Advent. We will have extra times on the 21st and 22nd of December from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Come and receive the grace of the Sacrament of Penance.

          May St. Nicholas intercede for children in need,

          Fr. Mark