The feast of Saint Nicholas is celebrated on December 6, during the
beginning of the liturgical season of Advent. In this
lesson Saint Nicholas was presented to your child as a
person who helped and cared for others. During Advent
(the four weeks before Christmas) Catholics are
encouraged to prepare for Christ's birthday through
prayer and good works. The story of Saint Nicholas draws
your child into this Advent preparation.
Ask your child to tell you about Saint Nicholas. Then go over the Faith
Summary on page 83 by asking your child,
"What did Saint Nicholas do? What can we do during
Advent to get ready for Jesus' birthday?"
A Shoe Surprise
Some countries have a custom in which children leave out their shoes
on the night before Saint Nicholas' feast. The family
members put something special in the shoes. You might
want to introduce this custom by putting a little note
in your child's shoe. The note might say, "You are
so thoughtful. Let's do this together: ______."
Secret Sock
Beginning on Saint Nicholas' feast day, have your child save some
pennies. Your child may use a sock as the sack to slip
in the "secret cents." At the end of Advent
you and your child may use the savings to buy a surprise
gift for someone who is in need.
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