Quoted from: Saint Nicholas Center
"Advent is the time when Christians prepare to greet Christ—who came as a babe in a manger, who comes into our lives each day, and who will come again at the end of time. Advent is the time when people of faith are most at odds with the culture. The church calls people to focus on getting ready to receive Christ—preparing hearts and lives to make room for Jesus, to live as he would have us live.
How does St. Nicholas fit into all of this? He is an Advent saint because his December 6th feast day always falls in early Advent (Advent begins four Sundays before Christmas between November 27 and December 3). What he did, may not be as important as the way he did it. Nicholas became so popular because he was a faithful follower of Jesus Christ. His life clearly reflected the way each one of us is called to show God's love to others, especially those in need.
Celebrating St. Nicholas on his day in Advent brings a bit of fun and festivity into homes, churches, and schools. His small treats and surprises help keep the spirit of good St. Nicholas, especially when stories of his goodness and kind deeds are told and ways to express his care for those in need are sought. Saint Nicholas helps us remember Christmas is a feast of love, hope, kindness and generosity. Yes, Nicholas is a good Advent saint."
I am more attracted to the idea of Saint Nicholas, as we saw in Europe. Today, Dec. 5, is the Eve of Saint Nicholas Day. I like that it is celebrated seperately from Christmas. There are still the fun things like leaving out stockings,boots, and treats for the donkey - and getting small surprizes and treats, but to me it seems on a smaller scale than Santa's big hurrah.
I liked these definitions of St. Nicholas and his Feast day:
"St. Nicholas showed us how to find Jesus in the poor, the oppressed and abused. He was devoted to charity, but charity always linked to justice."
"His stories, as lover of the poor and patron saint of children, complement the central message of the birth of Jesus by leading people to look beyond their own wants and desires."
"A simple St. Nicholas Day celebration adds a bit of welcome festivity in the early days of Advent. It provides an opportunity to tell the story of St. Nicholas, a man of faith whose goodness and generosity grew out of his love for God. It enriches our understanding of Santa Claus by showing the real historical person who inspired the familiar legend and traditions."
"Why Celebrate St. Nicholas Day?
* To tell the story of a Christian saint, whose model life inspires compassion and charity
* To reveal the true identity of Santa Claus and Father Christmas
* To focus on giving more than on receiving
* To emphasize small treats and family fun
* To provide a bit of special festivity early in the waiting weeks of Advent
* To offer a spiritual dimension to gift giving
* To help keep Jesus the center of Christmas"
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