Sunday,December 3rd, 2017
Hello parents & teachers!
This Sunday, there will be no Sunday School, as we celebrate the Feast Day of St. Nicholas of Myra, our Parish's namesake.
Who was St. Nicholas? St. Nicholas was born during the third century in the village of Patera (now Turkey.) His wealthy parents, who raised him to be a devout Christian, died in an epidemic while Nicholas was still young. Obeying Jesus' words to "sell what you own and give the money to the poor," Nicholas used his whole inheritance to assist the needy, the sick, and the suffering. He dedicated his life to serving God and was made Bishop of Myra while still a young man. Bishop Nicholas became known throughout the land for his generosity to those in need, his love for children, and his concern for sailors and ships.
Under the Roman Emperor Diocletian, who ruthlessly persecuted Christians, Bishop Nicholas suffered for his faith, was exiled and imprisoned. The prisons were so full of bishops, priests, and deacons, there was no room for the real criminals—murderers, thieves and robbers. After his release, Nicholas attended the Council of Nicaea in AD 325. He died December 6, AD 343 in Myra and was buried in his cathedral church, where a unique relic, called manna, formed in his grave. This liquid substance, said to have healing powers, fostered the growth of devotion to Nicholas. The anniversary of his death became a day of celebration, St. Nicholas Day, December 6th.
Through the centuries many stories and legends have been told of St. Nicholas' life and deeds. These accounts help us understand his extraordinary character and why he is so beloved and revered as protector and helper of those in need.
Please join us at the 10am service this Sunday as we welcome St. Nicholas for his annual visit and stay for coffee hour as we celebrate the beginning of the Advent Season while creating Advent wreaths for your family ($10 donation requested, to help cover the cost of supplies.)
PERSONAL CARE PANTRY
As the rising costs of household necessities make more demands on the budgets of our clients, the difference that our donations can make is huge because the personal care items that we collect cannot be purchased with Food Stamps. Please watch for sales and shop generously for laundry and dish detergent/ toilet paper, paper towels and tissues/ feminine sanitary supplies and shampoo, conditioner, combs and brushes / toothbrushes and toothpaste/ bar soap deodorant, razors, and shaving cream.
The LINEN MINISTRY needs gently used blankets and towels. Thank you!
Blessings,
St. Nick's
