2. St Nicholas of Myra He was born in the Middle East about 350 miles northwest of Bethlehem in the fourth century. His parents were wealthy and raised him to be a devout Christian.

3. His parents died while he was still young and he inherited a considerable sum of money. He gave all his money to the poor, the sick and the suffering (according to legend).

4. He dedicated his life to serving God and was made a bishop while he was still a young man. He became known throughout the land for his generosity to those in need, his love for children, and his concern for sailors and ships.

5. “...one miracle was absolutely transparent and could not involve any deception, namely, that of living out the faith in everyday life for an entire lifetime and maintaining charity. People in the fourth century experienced this miracle in the life of Nicholas…” Peter A. Kwasniewski

6. “May all the gifts and benefits that come from God our Father, and the Master, Jesus Christ, be yours. Every time I think of you—and I think of you often!—I thank God for your lives of free and open access to God, given by Jesus. There’s no end to what has happened in you—it’s beyond speech, beyond knowledge. The evidence of Christ has been clearly verified in your lives.

7. Just think—you don’t need a thing, you’ve got it all! All God’s gifts are right in front of you as you wait expectantly for our Master Jesus to arrive on the scene for the Finale. And not only that, but God himself is right alongside to keep you steady and on track until things are all wrapped up by Jesus. God, who got you started in this spiritual adventure, shares with us the life of his Son and our Master Jesus. He will never give up on you. Never forget that” 1 Corinthians 1:3-9 The Message

8. “Just think—you don’t need a thing, you’ve got it all! All God’s gifts are right in front of you as you wait expectantly for our Master Jesus to arrive on the scene for the Finale. And not only that, but God himself is right alongside to keep you steady and on track until things are all wrapped up by Jesus” 1 Corinthians 1:7 The Message