Podcasts about st nicholas

A four-year-old's question—“Why does Santa look different?”—opens a bigger one: why does Jesus look different in every painting, and how do we recognize Him today? Joe Rockey and Father Boniface Hicks explore how sacred art (especially icons) shows inner, spiritual reality more than photo-realism—and how Jesus is truly present in the Eucharist even when our eyes see only bread. As Christmas Masses fill with newcomers, we talk about hospitality, cooperation with grace, and moving from the visible to the invisible: from faces and symbols to the Person who loves us. Always through the three lenses: honesty with self, charity with others, under a living relationship with God.Key IdeasDifferent “looks,” same identity: saints (and St. Nicholas) are shown with signs of their vocation; Jesus is recognized by what's essential—wounds, mercy, and divinity—not a fixed facial template.Icons aim beyond photography: light “from within” depicts the glorified person; art can reveal deeper truth than surface detail.Real Presence, hidden form: in the Eucharist our senses see bread; faith meets the living Christ—Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity.Childlike faith teaches adults: wonder and simple trust help us notice God's voice in conscience and daily life.Christmas hospitality: welcome irregular Mass-goers with warmth and witness; our charity can draw people back to the Church.Links & ReferencesNational Shrine of Our Lady of Champion (approved Marian apparition to Adele Brise, Champion, WI): https://championshrine.orgCTAIf this helped, please leave a review or share this episode with a friend.Questions or thoughts? Email FatherAndJoe@gmail.comTagsFather and Joe, Joe Rockey, Father Boniface Hicks, Advent, Christmas, St. Nicholas, Santa Claus, icons, iconography, sacred art, Real Presence, Eucharist, conscience, childlike faith, visibility and invisibility, signs and symbols, wounds of Christ, hospitality, Christmas Mass, welcome culture, evangelization, parish life, Incarnation, contemplation, prayer, gratitude, relationships, relationship with God, relationship with self, relationship with others, Benedictine spirituality, Catholic podcast, practical spirituality

Please enjoy this rendition of Shelby Novak reading "A Visit from St. Nicholas", otherwise known as "'Twas the Night Before Christmas", the classic poem by Clement Clark Moore.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Please enjoy this rendition of Shelby Novak reading "A Visit from St. Nicholas", otherwise known as "'Twas the Night Before Christmas", the classic poem by Clement Clark Moore.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What do we know about the life of St Nicholas of Myra? What is his relationship with the modern-day Santa Claus? Should Catholics tell their children that Santa exists?PLEASE NOTE: This entire episode is one giant spoiler about the existence of Santa Claus. If you have small children who have not yet been disillusioned, you might want to listen to this one when they're not in the room. This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of listeners. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Donate via PayPal⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Contact the podcast: ⁠⁠⁠www.caitlinwest.com⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠References and further reading/listening/viewing:Catholic Encyclopedia, St Nicholas of MyraBritannica Encyclopedia, St NicholasCatholic Answers:Santa Claus for Catholics: Yes or No?The Weird History of Santa ClausSt Nicholas of Myra, by Michael the ArchimandriteAmber Rose, Saint Nicholas or Santa Claus? Catholic Ways to Celebrate!The Augustine Institute, St Nicholas and Santa ClausSt Nicholas Center

Dive into Christmas true crime, Santa Claus history, and holiday folklore with the real medieval relic heist that helped shape the legend of Santa. In 1087, sailors from Bari, Italy break into the tomb of St. Nicholas in Myra (modern Turkey)—and the world's most famous Christmas icon gets a disturbingly real origin story.Inside the candlelit crypt, witnesses claim the tomb is flooded with mysterious liquid—the “manna” of St. Nicholas—and the thieves interpret it as a sign the saint approves. But back on shore, the people of Myra collapse into grief and fury, pleading for even a single fragment. And when the relics reach Bari, the celebration turns volatile: church power struggles, blood spilled in the saint's name, and a brand-new basilica built to lock the prize in place.Then the rivalry escalates. Venice returns to Myra and scoops up what Bari left behind—tiny fragments, crushed pieces, a second claim to the same saint. Centuries later, science steps into the story: anatomical studies, missing bones, and the unsettling realization that Santa's “origin story” includes grave-robbing, propaganda, and a relic war that rewrote Europe's holiday traditions.Inside this episode:The 1087 relic heist: how Bari's sailors infiltrate Myra and break into the tomb“Furta sacra”: the medieval logic that framed theft as holy rescueThe grief of Myra: a town begging for any piece of their protectorBari's power play: riots, control of the relics, and a basilica built for a stolen saintBari vs. Venice: the second “collection” of bones and a centuries-long relic rivalryMiracles and manna: the eerie liquid linked to St. Nicholas and why skeptics argue backThe Santa connection: how this crime helped carry St. Nicholas into Western Europe's Christmas traditionWe're telling that story tonight.

Pastor Ed will share 4 thoughts that Santa might say to us about the real meaning of Christmas. He will also give the historical background of St Nicholas.

St. Nicholas Catholic Parish - December 06, 2025 - 5 PM Fr. Mark Guzman 2nd Sunday Of Advent by

St. Nicholas Catholic Parish - December 08, 2025 - 6 PM Fr. Mark Guzman Immaculate Conception by

St. Nicholas Catholic Parish - December 07, 2025 - 9 AM Fr. Mark Guzman 2nd Sunday Of Advent by

St. Nicholas Catholic Parish - December 08, 2025 - 9 AM Fr. Mark Guzman Immaculate Conception by

St. Nicholas Catholic Parish - November 30, 2025 - 11 AM Fr. Mark Guzman 1st Sunday Of Advent by

St. Nicholas Catholic Parish - November 29, 2025 - 5 PM Fr. Mark Guzman 1st Sunday Of Advent by

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Send us a textA cave near Bethlehem. Stone, straw, and a light that still reaches us. We follow Saint Nicholas's quiet pilgrimage and find our own footing in a season when headlines blur, and hearts grow tired. The story of Emmanuel, God with us, becomes more than a lyric—it turns into a lifeline you can hold, a place you can enter, a presence you can trust when love feels heavy and the calendar won't slow down.We open with Nicholas's years near Beit Jala, exploring how a humble cave shaped his generous life. From there, we turn to the liturgies of Doug McKelvey's Every Moment Holy, to name the ache of too much information and too little strength. What if the most faithful move is to honor creaturely limits? What if justice and mercy begin with yielding the unbearable to the One whose shoulders can carry it? That shift reframes compassion, helping us respond to real needs that intersect our actual lives—family tensions, impatient lines, neighbors on edge—without going numb.Along the way, we offer simple prompts to list your griefs, discern your small share in God's redemptive work, and carry a single phrase of Scripture through the week. The goal isn't to escape reality; it's to live it with Emmanuel—fully God, fully human—beside you.If this speaks to you, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs rest, and leave a quick review to help others find this space. What burden are you ready to place on God's stronger shoulders today?Support the showBegin Your Heartlifter's Journey: Support the show: Your Donation Matters Leave a review and rate the podcast: WRITE A REVIEW Make a tax-deductible donation through Heartlift International Visit and subscribe to Heartlift Central on Substack. This is our new online meeting place for Heartlifters worldwide. Download the 2025 Advent Guide: The Great Glimmer Hunt Meet me on Instagram: @janellrardon

This video is a clip of my stream "St. Nicholas: The Untold Story Behind Santa Claus." If you would like to watch the entire stream please click the following link. https://youtube.com/live/RwWR07PXzSU Thumbnail and Clips: iPak Arts: https://linktr.ee/ipak_arts

Sexfest exposed more than different opinions, waste policy update, Ipswich netball facility upgrades and St Nicholas precinct comes to life in the heart of the city. All that and more from mayor Teresa Harding who joins the show following the December meeting of Ipswich City Council.Recorded: 11 December 2025.Published: 12 December 2025.Image: Christmas in Tulmur Place Ipswich (supplied)Theme music: AudioJungle - Mark_Music and Matt SteinerJust in case you need help: https://www.ipswich.qld.gov.au/files/assets/public/v/1/live/our-community/domestic-and-family-violence/documents/just-in-case-card-november-2025.pdfIpswich City Council: www.ipswich.qld.gov.au/Ipswich City Council meeting agendas and minutes: bit.ly/2JlrVKYCouncil meetings on YouTube: www.youtube.com/c/IpswichCityCouncilTVIpswich Planning Scheme: https://bit.ly/3g4Jwb7Inside Ipswich: https://ipswichtoday.com.au/inside-ipswich/Shape Your Ipswich: www.shapeyouripswich.com.au/Ipswich Civic Centre: www.ipswichciviccentre.com.au/Ipswich Festivals: https://www.ipswichfestivals.com.au/The Leads music: https://theleadsmusic.bandcamp.com/Black Swan Art (David Pearce): https://www.blackswanart.com.au/Ipswich Art Gallery: www.ipswichartgallery.qld.gov.au/Ipswich Community Gallery: https://ipswichartgallery.qld.gov.au/community/ipswich-community-galleryDiscover Ipswich: www.discoveripswich.com.au/Discover Ipswich what's on: https://whatson.discoveripswich.com.au/Workshops Rail Museum: https://www.museum.qld.gov.au/rail-workshopsIpswich Showgrounds: https://ipswichshow.com.au/upcoming-eventsIpswich Libraries: www.ipswichlibraries.com.au/Studio 188: www.studio188.com.au/Nicholas Street Precinct: www.nicholasst.com.au/Picture Ipswich: www.pictureipswich.com.au/Lost Ipswich Facebook: https://bit.ly/3pLLBwNc Stream audio recommended. If auto download enabled some apps require a re-download or refresh RSS content to hear most recent version should there be an episode updateIpswich Today is supported by listeners like you. Help keep it online with a small one-off or regular donation. Visit https://ipswichtoday.com.au/Advertise on Ipswich Today https://ipswichtoday.com.au/advertising/Ipswich Today recommended listening: Twenty Thousand Hertz - stories behind the world's most recognisable and interesting sounds https://www.20k.org/ 

St. Nicholas Catholic Parish - November 23, 2025 - 11 AM Fr. Mark Guzman Christ The King by

St Nicholas the Wonderworker(Saturday December 6th 2025AD) by Duchovny Dom Monastery

Father Richard Hendrick, OFM, a Capuchin Franciscan from Dublin, Ireland joins Trending with Timmerie. Episode Guide Capuchin customs for Advent (1:50) Finding Christ and Holy Spirit in the prophecies of the Old Testament (20:37) How St. Nicholas became Santa Claus (35:54) Resources mentioned: https://www.facebook.com/BroRichard/ x @brorichard https://x.com/brorichard?s=21

Our beloved holy Father Nicholas is, along with St George (and second to the All-holy Theotokos), probably the best-loved Saint of the Church. His numberless miracles through the ages, on behalf of the countless Christians who have called on him, cannot be told.   He was born in Lycia (in Asia Minor) around the end of the third century, to pious Christian parents. His love of virtue, and his zeal for observing the canons of the Church, were evident from his infancy, when he would abstain from his mother's breast every Wednesday and Friday until the evening. From early youth he was inclined to solitude and silence; in fact, not a single written or spoken word of the Saint has come down to us. Though ordained a priest by his uncle, Archbishop Nicholas, he attempted to withdraw to a hermit's life in the Holy Land; but he was told by revelation that he was to return home to serve the Church publicly and be the salvation of many souls.   When his parents died, he gave away all of his inheritance to the needy, and thereafter almsgiving was his greatest glory. He always took particular care that his charity be done in secret. Perhaps the most famous story of his open-handedness concerns a debt-ridden man who had no money to provide dowries for his daughters, or even to support them, and in despair had resolved to give them into prostitution. On three successive nights the Saint threw a bag of gold into the window of the man's house, saving him and his daughters from sin and hopelessness. The man searched relentlessly to find and thank his benefactor; when at last he discovered that it was Nicholas, the Saint made him promise not to reveal the good deed until after he had died. (This story may be the thin thread that connects the Saint with the modern-day Santa Claus).   God honored his faithfulness by granting him unparalleled gifts of healing and wonderworking. Several times he calmed storms by his prayers and saved the ship that he was sailing in. Through the centuries he has often done the same for sailors who call out to him, and is considered the patron of sailors and all who go to sea.   He was elected Bishop of Myra not long before the great persecutions under Diocletian and Maximian (c. 305), and was put in prison, from which he continued to encourage his flock in the Faith. When the Arian heresy wracked the Church not long after Constantine came to the throne, St Nicholas was one of the 318 Bishops who gathered in Nicea in 325. There he was so incensed at the blasphemies of Arius that he struck him on the face. This put the other bishops in a quandary, since the canons require that any hierarch who strikes anyone must be deposed. Sadly, they prepared to depose the holy Nicholas; but in the night the Lord Jesus and the most Holy Theotokos appeared to them, telling them that the Saint had acted solely out of love for Truth, not from hatred or passion, and that they should not act against him.   While still in the flesh, he sometimes miraculously appeared in distant places to save the lives of the faithful. He once saved the city of Myra from famine by appearing to the captain of a ship full of grain, telling him to take his cargo to the city. He appeared in a dream to Constantine to intercede for the lives of three Roman officers who had been falsely condemned; the three grateful soldiers later became monks.   The holy bishop reposed in peace around 345. His holy relics were placed in a church built in his honor in Myra, where they were venerated by throngs of pilgrims every year. In 1087, after Myra was conquered by the Saracens, the Saint's relics were translated to Bari in southern Italy, where they are venerated today. Every year, quantities of fragrant myrrh are gathered from the casket containing his holy relics.

Friends of the Rosary,Today, December 6, we celebrate the memorial of St. Nicholas of Myra (d. 346), a 4th-century bishop and one of the most popular saints in the Western world, honored as the patron saint of children.Born in Lycia in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), he practiced remarkable spiritual and corporal works of mercy and worked tirelessly to defend the faith.His legends of generosity made him into today's Santa Claus, a white-bearded gentleman who captivates children with promises of gifts on Christmas Eve.During the persecutions of Diocletian, he was imprisoned for preaching Christianity, but was released during the reign of Emperor Constantine.His relics are still preserved in the church of San Nicola in Bari. There is an oily substance, known as Manna di S. Nicola, highly valued for its medicinal powers, that is said to flow.Veneration for Nicholas spread throughout Europe and Asia, and countless miracles were attributed to the saint's intercession.The story of Saint Nicholas reached America in a distorted form. The Dutch Protestants carried a version of the saint's life to New Amsterdam, portraying Nicholas as a Nordic or North Pole magician and wonder-worker who brings happiness to small children.Our present-day conception of Santa Claus has grown from this version.Catholics should think of Nicholas as a saint, a confessor of the faith and the bishop of Myra, not merely as a jolly man from the North Pole.Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• ⁠December 6, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

Matt Trump battles tech gremlins and camera failures before settling in for a relaxed, story-filled exploration of the Nicene Creed on its 1700th anniversary, and the surprising role of St. Nicholas in the ancient struggle for Christian doctrine. He walks viewers through the origins of the Creed, the Greek philosophical roots behind its precise language, and why distinctions like homoousion vs. homoiousion mattered so deeply to the early Church. Matt contrasts this rigorous pursuit of meaning with today's deconstructed culture, where words and truth have become unmoored. Along the way, he traces the real history of St. Nicholas, his feast-day traditions, and the legends surrounding his supposed confrontation with Arius at Nicaea. With sponsor shoutouts, personal reflections, linguistic deep dives, humor, and a warm Advent-season tone, Matt uses history to illuminate the modern fight against a world losing its grip on meaning, memory, and faith.

Hebrews 13: 7-17; Matthew 25: 14-23; Haydock Commentary Please consider donating to help keep this podcast going by going to buymeacoffee.com/catholicdailybrief Also, if you enjoy these episodes, please give a five star rating and share the podcast with your friends and family

Isaiah 30: 19-21, 23-26; Matthew 9: 35 - 10: 1, 5, 6-8; Haydock Commentary Please consider donating to help keep this podcast going by going to buymeacoffee.com/catholicdailybrief Also, if you enjoy these episodes, please give a five star rating and share the podcast with your friends and family

December 6th, 2025:  St Nicholas, Exemplar of Shepards; St Nicholas & Anti-Christian Persecution; St Nicholas vs Arius; The St Nick We Used to Know; St Nicholas vs Santa Claus

Tomorrow is the Feast of St. Nicholas, and Father Jonathan shares the real story behind this beloved saint and how families can meaningfully celebrate his feast day.   Many of us grew up with the joy of “St. Nick Night,” waking up on December 6th to small gifts or treats. But behind the tradition stands a remarkable man: St. Nicholas, a bishop from present-day Turkey who loved the Lord with boldness and charity.   He defended the truth at the Council of Nicaea (even famously punching a heretical bishop!), rescued impoverished young women by secretly providing dowries, and became a model of generosity that eventually inspired the gift-giving tradition we know today.   He is the patron saint of children, sailors, and those in need — and his feast day is a perfect opportunity for families to talk about:   • Saints who lived heroic virtue • Bishops and priests who guard the faith • Fathers who protect and provide • The joy of giving secretly and generously   As you celebrate tonight and tomorrow, keep the spirit of St. Nicholas alive in your home and heart — not just in gifts, but in gratitude, courage, and love for the Lord.   St. Nicholas, pray for us!   #StNicholas #FeastDay #CatholicSaints #Advent #CatholicParenting #PeaceOnEarth

To enter Heaven we must keep our soul without sin, or have it washed clean again by sorrow and confession.

14 For even as a man going into a far country, called his servants, and delivered to them his goods;Sicut enim homo peregre proficiscens, vocavit servos suos, et tradidit illis bona sua. 15 And to one he gave five talents, and to another two, and to another one, to every one according to his proper ability: and immediately he took his journey.Et uni dedit quinque talenta, alii autem duo, alii vero unum, unicuique secundum propriam virtutem : et profectus est statim. 16 And he that had received the five talents, went his way, and traded with the same, and gained other five.Abiit autem qui quinque talenta acceperat, et operatus est in eis, et lucratus est alia quinque. 17 And in like manner he that had received the two, gained other two.Similiter et qui duo acceperat, lucratus est alia duo. 18 But he that had received the one, going his way digged into the earth, and hid his lord's money.Qui autem unum acceperat, abiens fodit in terram, et abscondit pecuniam domini sui. 19 But after a long time the lord of those servants came, and reckoned with them.Post multum vero temporis venit dominus servorum illorum, et posuit rationem cum eis. 20 And he that had received the five talents coming, brought other five talents, saying: Lord, thou didst deliver to me five talents, behold I have gained other five over and above.Et accedens qui quinque talenta acceperat, obtulit alia quinque talenta, dicens : Domine, quinque talenta tradidisti mihi, ecce alia quinque superlucratus sum. 21 His lord said to him: Well done, good and faithful servant, because thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will place thee over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.Ait illi dominus ejus : Euge serve bone, et fidelis : quia super pauca fuisti fidelis, super multa te constituam; intra in gaudium domini tui. 22 And he also that had received the two talents came and said: Lord, thou deliveredst two talents to me: behold I have gained other two.Accessit autem et qui duo talenta acceperat, et ait : Domine, duo talenta tradidisti mihi, ecce alia duo lucratus sum. 23 His lord said to him: Well done, good and faithful servant: because thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will place thee over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.Ait illi dominus ejus : Euge serve bone, et fidelis : quia super pauca fuisti fidelis, super multa te constituam; intra in gaudium domini tui.The bishop of Myra in Asia Minor is one of the most popular oriental saints. The spiritual and temporal needs of his flock were the first object of his pastoral care. This worker of miracles died A.D. 342; his body was eventually enshrined at Bari in Italy.

HOLY FAMILY MISSION RAFFLE: If you wish to support the work that Holy Family Mission do and enter the raffle, you will find details on how to do so here - https://www.holyfamilymission.ie/supportus   Visit https://www.holyfamilymission.ie/ to learn more about Holy Family Mission.   PAVING THE WAY HOME:   YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@pavingthewayhome85 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/paving-the-way-home-podcast/id1517252693 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sywWGWjqXFSErvxOcNeEt?si=jjRM2DjsQvGUJppEQqFS_g  

Listen to today's podcast... Ever wondered who St. Nicholas was? There once was a young boy named Nicholas, who was born during the third century. His wealthy parents, who raised him to be a devout Christian, died in an epidemic. Nicholas used his whole inheritance to assist the needy, the sick, and the suffering. He was made Bishop of Myra while still a young man. Bishop Nicholas became known throughout the land for his generosity to the those in need. Take One Action Today To Build Your #Resiliency!      Tips For Building Resiliency and Celebrating St. Nicholas Day: We could all stand to be a little more like St. Nicholas.  Here is a boy, whose world dramatically changed when his parents died.  He could have let this beat him down. He could have drowned in self-pity.  Instead, he relied on his faith and did whatever he could to help those who were even less fortunate then himself.  Let's get good at turning life around and focusing on what we have, and less on what we have lost or don't have. Today, we have the image of Santa Clause and we give gifts to the people we know and love.  But what about our giving to those less fortunate then ourselves? We are donating less each year. The average annual amount per donor is less than $500 with the median amount under $150. With the economy the way that it is, the demand within most charities has increased while their donations have decreased.  Make a difference in the lives of someone less fortunate than you.  It doesn't take a lot to have a huge impact. In 1998, my youngest son was due to arrive on Christmas Day.  We decided that boy or girl, their name would honour St. Nicholas as he was our blessed gift.  Nickolas arrived safely on December 22. If you like today's resiliency tips, let me know. Don't forget that you can find more tips for building resiliency, by checking out my Live Smart blog at worksmartlivesmart.com #mentalhealth #hr

National St. Nicholas day. Entertainment from 1967. Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer debuted, Washington Monument capped off, Slavery abolished, Gerld Ford 1st unelected Vice President. Todays birthdays - Ira Gershwin, Agnes Moorehead, Wally Cox, Jo Beth Williams, Tom Hulce, Steven Wright, Janine Turner. Roy Orbison died.Intro - God did good - Dianna Corcoran        https://www.diannacorcoran.com/Little St. Nick - Beach BoysDaydream believer - The MonkeesIt's the little things - Sonny JamesRudolph the red nosed reindeer - Gene AutryBirthdays - In da club - 50 Cent    https://www.50cent.com/ Swanee - Judy GarlandUnderdog TV themeAnimal House movie clipSteven Wright stand up clipPretty woman - Roy OrbisonExit - Knock Knock - Derryl Perry      https://www.derrylperry.com/countryundergroundradio.comHistory & Factoids about today podcast

From Desert Oracle Radio, this is The Eldritch Republic, our new series about America’s strange history & uncanny folklore. Tonight we visit the beautiful country estate of Clement Clarke Moore, the big house called "Chelsea" where he read his Christmas poem to the family. The poem is "A Visit From St. Nicholas," and the country estate is now the neighborhood of Chelsea, New York City. Santa Claus, it turns out, is a New York City native. He was created from old Dutch traditions of St. Nicholas and Sinterklaas, by NYC boosters and literary men such as Clement C. Moore, Washington Irving and John Pintard. Written and hosted by Ken Layne, with soundscapes by RedBlueBlackSilver. Desert Oracle Radio © ℗ 2017-2025 https://DesertOracle.comSupport the show: https://www.patreon.com/desertoracleSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's poem is an appeal to the jolly giver of gifts. Happy reading!For more St. Nick poems, head over to the St. Nicholas Center. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dailypoempod.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome to Day 6 of my Tudor Christmas Advent series! Today we're diving into one of the most enchanting feast days of the Tudor calendar, St Nicholas's Day, and uncovering how this 4th-century bishop eventually became the Santa Claus we know today. We'll explore: The real St Nicholas of Myra, miracle worker and protector of children The extraordinary Boy Bishop tradition, where a child led church services from 6–28 December How Henry VII supported the custom… and why Henry VIII banned it How Hereford and Salisbury Cathedrals still keep the tradition alive today Why St Nicholas didn't bring gifts in Tudor England The medieval legends, chimneys, stockings, secret gold, that shaped later folklore How Dutch “Sinta Klaas” became Santa in America Why Father Christmas in Tudor England wasn't a gift-giver at all So no, Tudor children didn't hang stockings, but the stories surrounding St Nicholas created the foundation for Santa Claus, from night-time gift-giving to flying through the sky. Join me tomorrow for Tudor Christmas Decorations! And if you're enjoying this series, don't forget to like, subscribe, and ring the bell. #StNicholas #BoyBishop #SantaClausHistory #TudorChristmas #ClaireRidgway #HistoryYouTube #MedievalTraditions #ChristmasOrigins #Sinterklaas #FatherChristmas #TudorHistory

KRAMPUS & YULEIn central European folklore, Krampus is a Christmas devil who visits on the eve of St Nicholas Day, to punish naughty children. He's also known to drag an unfortunate few back to hell with him in a basket carried upon his back. Some children are merely whipped with birch tree branches known as switches whilst others serve as supper to St Nicholas' rather unconventional companion. The name Krampus may have evolved from the German word Krampen which means claw and this half goat, half human, demon monster is thought to have been part of the Pagan rituals performed around the Winter Solstice, with legend saying that Krampus is the son of Hel, the Norse god of the underworld. Yule is one of the oldest winter celebrations and with Norseman being hunters, who spent much of their time outdoors, they worshipped the Sun and saw it as a wheel that changed the seasons. The word for this wheel was Houl and it is from this word that Yule is thought to have derived from. At midwinter, the Norsemen would sacrifice cattle, gather around bonfires, drink sweet ale and tell stories as the long nights would again, begin to shorten.Resources:IntroductionYuleStory 1 Story 2Minehead HobbyhorseThe Devil's FootprintsThanks so much for listening and we'll catch up with you again next week for some more true, scary stories.Sarah and Tobie xxJoin us on InstagramJoin us on TwitterJoin us on FacebookVisit our WebsiteSURVEY Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fr. Bobby Blood joins Patrick to discuss St. Nicholas: The Spirit of giving Who was Saint Nicholas? (5:24) why do we need to be aware of Church teaching? (15:37) Maria - Story about generosity. I was in a class with a bunch of different instruments, and the nuns said we needed to each bring a dollar to school to help pay for a broken drum. (17:44) Break 1 Geri - Tradition: We would use our dads athletic socks. We would fill them with fruit and nuts (in the socks) to teach stories from the bible. Pretty cool tradition (22:20) Carl - Tradition: slippers at the foot of the door and we would put cookies or something that we could give to someone outside of our home who was in need Lorraine - I have a fractured spine and there are people at my church that are helping me. I made a donation to RR in honor those people helping me. (33:17) Break 2 Father Rocky Shares a special book he wrote about Mary. (46:07) Joey - Before my mom died, we were talking about charity. She reminded me of something I did that made her proud of me. On a field trip, I bought another little kid a lunch when I saw she didn't have one.

Hello to you listening in Den Hague, the Netherlands!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Story Prompt Friday and your host, Diane Wyzga.Who is Saint Nicholas? Little is known about the historical Saint Nicholas who was born during the third century in the village of Patara in Asia Minor on what is now the southern coast of Turkey.  The earliest accounts of his life were written centuries after his death. Click HERE to learn more. But it is believed the life and deeds of St. Nicholas gave rise to the Christmas character we know as Santa Claus.From a very early age I remember how my family celebrated December 6th as the Feast of Saint Nicholas; a reminder that Christmas is on its way and someone is watching us - from a distance - to be sure we stay on the nice side of naughty. On the night of December 5th each child put a pair of shoes outside their bedroom door. On the morning of the 6th there was a small gift in the shoes left by Saint Nicholas himself, reminding us to be of love a little more careful than anything else this season.Story Prompt: What one tradition or ritual do you continue at this time of year?  Who might it remind you of? What special meaning does it hold for you? Write that story and tell it out loud!You're always welcome: "Come for the stories - Stay for the magic!" Speaking of magic, I hope you'll subscribe, share a 5-star rating and nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, bring your friends and rellies, and join us! You will have wonderful company as we continue to walk our lives together. Be sure to stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website, check out the Services, arrange a no-obligation Discovery Call, and stay current with me as "Wyzga on Words" on Substack.Stories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer's Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicALL content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved.  If you found this podcast episode helpful, please consider sharing and attributing it to Diane Wyzga of Stories From Women Who Walk podcast with a link back to the original source.

Every night, join Father Joseph Matlak as he ends the day with prayer and reflection. In a few short minutes, and using the Douay-Rheims psalter for his reflections, Father Matlak guides you in prayer and shares a brief reflection and a thorough examination of conscience providing you with the encouragement necessary to go forward with peace and strength. ________________

For 6 December 2025, Memorial of St Nicholas, Advent 2025, based on Isaiah 30:19-21,23-26, Matthew 9:35-10:1,5,6-8

Help keep our podcast going by contributing to our Patreon! ⁠ Ah, Christmas—it's a time of cheer, of gift-giving and generosity; and a time to eat yer babies. This year, we're focusing on two different cannibalistic monsters from Christmas folklore: Père Fouettard and Hans Trapp. Because it turns out that child cannibalism really is the reason for the season—and perhaps Santa Claus is the biggest cannibal of all. What is Santa hiding under those jolly cheeks and that big white beard? Strap in, pour yourself your favorite holiday beverage, and get ready for a wild ride into the dark side of Christmas. Sponsors & Advertising This podcast is a member of Airwave Media podcast network. Want to advertise on our show? Please direct advertising inquiries to advertising@airwavemedia.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

St. Nicholas joins us in studio to tell his story and celebrate his feast, and Matthew Bunson discusses the heresies confronted at Nicaea.

Send us a textA storm-tossed sky lantern lands in a front yard with a daughter's message to her dad, and a simple response turns into a global moment of shared grief and hope. That story becomes our gateway into the real Saint Nicholas—an early Christian bishop who noticed the vulnerable, met practical needs with courage, and quietly changed lives in a collapsing empire.We sit down with author and screenwriter Matt Mikalatos to explore his devotional, Praying with Saint Nicholas, and the surprising history behind a figure too often flattened into myth. From Patara to Myra, we step through persecution under Diocletian, the pivot of Constantine, and the Council of Nicaea, where core beliefs were hammered out amid risk and conviction. We revisit the famous dowry rescue that inspired stockings, the confessor tradition that modeled reconciliation after failure, and the gripping moment Nicholas halted an unjust execution—mercy with a spine of steel.Threaded through it all is a practical Advent invitation: become a noticer. Pair 1 John 4:7–21 with small daily acts that restore dignity in your neighborhood. Slip generosity where it's needed, listen deeply to someone who feels invisible, and choose sustainable compassion that protects your mental health while expanding your capacity to love. We also clear up confusion around venerating saints, reframing it as asking trusted elders in the great cloud of witnesses to pray with us, not instead of us.If you're longing for an Advent that feels grounded, historic, and fiercely hopeful, this conversation offers both story and structure. Subscribe, share this episode with a friend who needs encouragement, and leave a one-sentence review to help others find the show. Your voice helps carry this light further.Support the showBegin Your Heartlifter's Journey: Support the show: Your Donation Matters Leave a review and rate the podcast: WRITE A REVIEW Make a tax-deductible donation through Heartlift International Visit and subscribe to Heartlift Central on Substack. This is our new online meeting place for Heartlifters worldwide. Download the 2025 Advent Guide: The Great Glimmer Hunt Meet me on Instagram: @janellrardon

Many of us know and love this holiday poem for its first iconic line, which has inspired many Christmas Eve traditions. But do you know this history of it?

Kevin Goodman is an Orthodox convert in Baltimore. He volunteers with the St. Nicholas Tele-Santa program, a free service in collaboration with the GOA, offering video calls with children to teach about the original Santa Claus, St. Nicholas of Myra.

Kevin Goodman is an Orthodox convert in Baltimore. He volunteers with the St. Nicholas Tele-Santa program, a free service in collaboration with the GOA, offering video calls with children to teach about the original Santa Claus, St. Nicholas of Myra.

Most of us think Advent means calendars, chocolate, and switching on the Christmas playlist… But for our medieval and Tudor ancestors, Advent meant something completely different. Welcome to Day 1 of my Tudor Christmas Advent series! Today we're stepping into the medieval and Tudor world to explore what Advent really meant, and how it prepared people for the true Christmas feast that didn't begin until 25 December. In this episode, I cover: - Why Advent was more like a mini-Lent — a season of fasting and restraint - Why Christmas Eve was the strictest fasting day of all - How the Church shaped December as a time of preparation, not celebration - The older midwinter traditions behind the season - Why a Tudor walking into our modern homes would think we'd started Christmas FAR too early - How Advent set the stage for the Twelve Days of Christmas, with all their feasting, revelry and topsy-turvy fun For the Tudors, Advent wasn't about treats, it was about waiting. Join me every day as we journey through Tudor Advent and Christmas, exploring St Nicholas and the Boy Bishop, Tudor food and drink, wassailing, mumming, the Lord of Misrule and much more. Do you mark Advent in any special way? Let me know in the comments! If you'd like to walk through a full Tudor Christmas with me, don't forget to like, subscribe, and ring the bell for tomorrow's instalment. #TudorHistory #TudorChristmas #Advent #HistoryYouTube #ClaireRidgway #MedievalChristmas #TwelveDaysOfChristmas #HistoryNerd #BritishHistory #TudorTok #ChristmasHistory

In celebration of World Children's Day, Jay Rayner and the panel are at the Academy of St Nicholas in Liverpool answering questions from an audience of pupils and teachers. Joining Jay at his school desk are chefs, cooks and food writers Melissa Thompson, Jordan Bourke and Rob Owen Brown and materials expert Dr Zoe Laughlin.The panellists share their best salt and pepper chicken recipes, explain why some cheeses melt more than others, and answer the most trying of questions - do you call your evening meal tea or dinner? Encouraged by the Head of Design and Technology, Katie Bell, the students receive helpful tips and recipes from the panel for their upcoming cookery exams.World Children's Day has been honoured every year since 1954 and is aimed at improving children's welfare. Panel: Rob Owen Brown, Dr Zoe Laughlin, Melissa Thompson, Jordan BourkeA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4

The journey continues with the great Bishop St. Nicholas

November 14th, 2025:  Martyrdom & the Courage of Charity; Staying in Your Seat with St Josaphat; St Nicholas & the Challenge of Truth; St Josaphat - Patron of Unity; Disobeying Unjust Laws