A Christmas Eve Reading

On Christmas Eve, amid candlelight, carols, and cherished traditions, it’s easy to focus on what feels familiar while missing the deeper story behind it. Tonight’s guest reflection gently invites us to look again—this time at the figure of Santa Claus, not as a distraction from Christ, but as a doorway into a richer understanding of generosity, humility, and faith. Rooted in the true life of Saint Nicholas of Myra, this reading reminds us that Christmas has always been about love given freely, quietly, and for the sake of others.

A Christmas Eve Reading

On Christmas Eve, many families talk about Santa and wonder how he fits into the Christian meaning of Christmas. What many people do not realize is that Santa Claus is not a made-up figure, but is rooted in the life of a real Christian saint.

Saint Nicholas of Myra was a Catholic bishop in the fourth century who loved God deeply and lived out the teachings of Jesus. He cared for the poor, protected children, and gave generously—often in secret. Saint Nicholas believed the words of Christ: “Whatever you did for the least of these, you did for Me.”

Because of this, he gave quietly, sometimes under the cover of night, asking for no recognition. Over time, his life of hidden generosity became the story that inspired Santa Claus. Many people know the modern image of Santa, but few know the holy man behind the tradition.

When understood rightly, Santa does not compete with Christ—he points to Him.

Just as Saint Nicholas gave in secret, Jesus came into the world quietly, born at night in a humble stable. The greatest gift ever given did not arrive with power or wealth, but with love. God gave His Son freely, not because the world had earned Him, but because the world was loved.

For this reason, Christian parents can feel confident including Santa in their Christmas traditions. When Santa is rooted in the true story of Saint Nicholas, he becomes a signpost—teaching children about generosity, humility, and love that expects nothing in return. Santa becomes a reflection, not a replacement, of Christ.

Every gift given in love echoes the first gift of Christmas: Jesus Christ, Emmanuel, God with us.

Tonight, as families wait in hope and joy, we remember Saint Nicholas—and we rejoice above all in the birth of our Savior.

“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” — Luke 2:11

Amen.