106 - St Nicholas: The Original Santa Claus

2025-12-22

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What do we know about the life of St Nicholas of Myra? What is his relationship with the modern-day Santa Claus? Should Catholics tell their children that Santa exists?PLEASE NOTE: This entire episode is one giant spoiler about the existence of Santa Claus. If you have small children who have not yet been disillusioned, you might want to listen to this one when they're not in the room. This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of listeners. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of...

What do we know about the life of St Nicholas of Myra? What is his relationship with the modern-day Santa Claus? Should Catholics tell their children that Santa exists?

PLEASE NOTE: This entire episode is one giant spoiler about the existence of Santa Claus. If you have small children who have not yet been disillusioned, you might want to listen to this one when they're not in the room.

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References and further reading/listening/viewing:

Catholic Encyclopedia, St Nicholas of Myra

Britannica Encyclopedia, St Nicholas

Catholic Answers:

Santa Claus for Catholics: Yes or No?

The Weird History of Santa Claus

St Nicholas of Myra, by Michael the Archimandrite

Amber Rose, Saint Nicholas or Santa Claus? Catholic Ways to Celebrate!