St. Nikolas

Where and when did Saint Nicholas the Myrrhbearer live

Saint Nicholas the Myrrhbearer, was born in the city of Patara, located in Asia Minor, during the 3rd century AD to wealthy and devout Christian parents, who passed on to him the values of Christianity. The exact date of his birth remains unknown, but we know that he lived during the reigns of Diocletian (284-304 AD), Maximian (286-305 AD), and Constantine the Great. 

How Saint Nicholas used his fortune to help

Unfortunately, he faced the loss of his parents at a young age. As a result, he inherited his family’s entire fortune. This gave him the opportunity to use his fortune for works of love and charity, distributing it to people in need.

His pure intentions were proven by his actions, but remained hidden. A typical example is the financial aid he extended to a struggling father with his three daughters. Saint Nicholas' contribution shielded these girls from corruption in difficult times, when their father was unable to meet the demands of daily living.

The work of Saint Nicholas as Archbishop of Myra and his imprisonment

He decided to devote the rest of his life to asceticism. With his special virtue, he was honored with the position of Priest in Patara and then with the position of Archbishop of Myra.

However, the Saint’s work did not meet with the approval of the local rulers, Diocletian and Maximus, who ordered his arrest and imprisonment. Although, even in prison, St. Nicholas taught and supported Christians.