Penna Dexter

In his book, THE TRUE SAINT NICHOLAS, Bill Bennett tells the story of the precursor of Santa Claus. Bill Bennett spent years as a popular radio host. He's also a former US Secretary of Education. He seeks, in this wonderful book, to teach us about Saint Nicholas and that he “matters to Christmas.” Nicholas was likely born in what is now Turkey. His parents were wealthy, devout Christians. They saw in their son’s childhood actions indications that he would “...serve God and man in a remarkable way.” After they died in a plague, young Nicholas went to live with his uncle in a monastery and ultimately resolved to train for the priesthood. This meant giving away his substantial inheritance. The ways in which he did this gained him a reputation for kindness and generosity, a mantle placed centuries later on the ample shoulders of Santa Claus. Nicholas became bishop of the coastal city of Myrna. His faith carried him through storms at sea, and persecutions in Rome. He lived to see Constantine take power and encourage the spread of Christianity. After his death, Nicholas became known as ‘the Wonderworker’ and his power to change hearts became legendary. Stories have him battling pagan deities and demons, guiding and healing. He was known never to take credit, but always to point people to God and encourage trust in Him. The name Saint Nicholas traveled far. Churches and basilicas were dedicated to him. Holidays were celebrated in his honor. Children were named after him. Protestant reformers opposed and tore at traditions and art that honored saints. By the end of the 16^thcentury, Nicholas was banished from the religious life of Europe, but not from people’s hearts. Dr. Bennett points out that he may have lost his place in churches, but he moved into peoples homes. Commerce and literature turned Saint Nicholas into our uniquely American gift-giver, Santa Claus. It's worthwhile to tell his story.