The Saint Nicholas Project
Symbols from Saint Nicholas
If you
study the story closely,
you will notice many things that have been a part of
your own Christmas’.
Stockings
hung by the chimney with care
Came from Saint Nicholas meeting the needs of the sisters who did not have a
dowry, and would have been sold into slavery. The gold was said to have landed
in stockings hung by the fire to dry.
An Orange
or Tangerine left in a Christmas Stocking
The gold that was tossed into the stockings is said to be in the form of Gold
Balls. Leaving an orange is in memory of Saint Nicholas
Candy Canes at Christmas
These symbolize Bishop Nicholas. Bishops carry staffs, which are shepherd’s
crooks. These show that they are the shepherds who are responsible for the
“flock.” This is based on the biblical accounts that Jesus is the good
shepherd, and the leader of the church is to follow his example.
The secret giving of gifts
Nicholas gave his gifts in the middle of the night, in secret. He did not want
to be recognized and have the thanks directed towards him. He wanted all the
thanks to go to God.