Celebrate Saint Nicholas.... Catholic Style!
Mark your Calendars!
December 6th is his feast day
St. Nicholas of Myra is a major saint in many European and Eastern countries. One of the old Christian traditions is for kids to leave their shoes out overnight in front of the fireplace, on the windowsill, or outside their bedroom door so that St. Nicholas can fill them with special fruits, candies, and other small gifts and treats. 

This tradition grew from the story of when St. Nicholas, the Bishop of Myra, threw bags of dowry money, either through a window or down a chimney, into the home of an impoverished family to rescue their daughters from being sold into slavery. This was just one of his many acts of good will and charity towards the poor, especially poor children.
Ideas to include in your children’s shoes are bags of chocolate candy coins, a small toy, new socks, a tangerine, and inexpensive religious items, such as a Christmas ornament, a rosary, saint bracelet, and prayer cards. You can also include candy canes which symbolize a shepherd’s staff.

Another cute part of this tradition is for kids to leave carrots or hay in their shoes overnight for St. Nicholas’ donkey to eat. St. Nicholas takes the hay and carrots for his donkey, and replaces them with small gifts and treats for the children in the morning.
Yes . . .

St. Nicholas was known to ride a donkey laden with gifts for children before he graduated to flying reindeer!
Want more dates to celebrate during Advent?
Ask and you shall receive!
December 8: Feast of the Immaculate Conception
This feast celebrates Mary, who was free of sin from the moment of her conception. This is a Holy Day of Obligation! Watch Mass! Say a special prayer to Mother Mary (feeling really motivated... say a family rosary!) Remind your children that Mary is their mother and will always be there for them.
December 12: Our Lady of Guadalupe
Did you know that Mother Mary appeared to St. Juan Diego FIVE times in December 1531. She appeared to him pregnant and wearing traditional Mexican clothing. It is a beautiful reminder that our mother meets us where we are! Our Lady of Guadalupe, pray for us!
December 13: St. Lucy
(also known as St. Lucia)
A young girl who was martyred for her faith. She denied her pagan suitor who then ordered her execution. Her name appears in one of our oldest (and possibly first) Eucharistic prayer! Celebrate her by talking about why faith is important or what is your favorite thing about being Catholic! St. Lucy, give us strength!
December 13: Gaudete Sunday
What is Gaudete Sunday? It is the third Sunday of Advent. Gaudete is Latin for "rejoice!" So how can we celebrate? REJOICE! Have a little Advent treat. Light your pink Advent candle and have a dance party! Show your family that Advent is a time of joy.
Still Need an Advent Wreath Kit or Giving Manger Kit? Stop by the parish office during 8:30-4 this week to pick one up! It's never to late to celebrate Advent!