Saint Nicholas, Bishop of Myra, is one of the most widely venerated saints in the Western world. In America, he is beloved as the jolly, round-bellied Santa Claus with his snowy beard, arriving on Christmas Eve to bring joy and gifts to children. Though he is particularly honored as the patron saint of children, Saint Nicholas is also invoked by sailors, merchants, travelers, confectioners, and pawnbrokers. He is regarded as one of the co-patrons of Russia, alongside Saint Andrew.

Born in Asia Minor at the close of the 3rd century, Saint Nicholas’ uncle, the Metropolitan of Myra in Lycia, appointed him as abbot of a nearby monastery. Following his uncle's death, Nicholas succeeded him as the metropolitan of Myra, holding the position until his passing. During Emperor Diocletian's persecution of Christians, he was imprisoned for spreading the Christian faith but was later released under the rule of Emperor Constantine.

Numerous stories of Saint Nicholas highlight his kindness and generosity. One of the most famous tales tells of his secret act of charity toward a poor man in Patara, who, unable to provide dowries for his three daughters, had considered selling them into prostitution. Upon learning of the man's plight, Saint Nicholas secretly threw three gold coins through the window, providing the necessary dowries to ensure the girls' future. This act is said to have inspired the symbol of three golden balls, which later became associated with moneylenders.

Saint Nicholas passed away on December 6, around the year 345, and was buried in a church in Myra. His remains remained there until 1087, when sailors from Bari, Italy, brought them to their city. By this time, devotion to the saint had spread across Europe and Asia, sparking a religious revival in the Western world. Many miracles are attributed to his intercession, and his relics are still kept at the Church of San Nicola in Bari, where it is believed that a special ointment called "Manna D. S. Nicola" flows from the relics.

Another popular story surrounding Saint Nicholas was propagated by Dutch Protestants in New Amsterdam, where he was depicted as a magician or miracle worker. This version of Saint Nicholas later evolved into the figure of Santa Claus. While Protestants celebrate him in this way, Catholics honor him as a saint, a devout believer, and the Metropolitan of Myra. Saint Nicholas is revered as a patron saint in many regions, including Greece, Russia, Naples, Sicily, Lorraine, and various cities in Italy, Germany, Austria, and Belgium.