He may be associated today with Santa Claus, but St Nicholas really existed! A great tradition has sprung up from the life of this 4th-century Bishop, that children put out their shoes on the eve of his feast and wake up to find them filled with coins. But where did this tradition originate? And why is he associated with Santa?
Help children come to know the real St Nick, the man behind Santa Claus, and to be inspired by his generosity. Once they've learned who he is, help them to bake their very own St Nicholas!
Despite the noise, rush and rowdiness of contemporary Christmasses, there is a link between Advent and silence. There can be no real meeting with God without silence. In this Advent homily from Bishop Hugh Gilbert, be inspired to embrace silence during this season to prepare for the great meeting of God on Christmas Day.
As we prepare to celebrate the coming of the Word made flesh, it's helpful to consider Christmas from three perspectives: the past when Our Saviour was born, the present where Jesus comes to us in the Eucharist, and the future when we will one day be judged.