Sunday St. Paul’s-in-the-Pines was blessed by a visit from the Bishop of Myra, as portrayed this year by Mike G.
Saint Nicholas of Myra, who lived approximately from 15 March 270 – 6 December 343) was also known as Nicholas of Bari. He was a Christian bishop of Greek descent from the maritime city of Myra in Asia Minor (modern-day Demre, Turkey) during the time of the Roman Empire.
Saint Nicholas is the patron saint of sailors, merchants, archers, repentant thieves, children, brewers, pawnbrokers, unmarried people, and students in various cities and countries around Europe. His reputation evolved among the pious, as was common for early Christian saints, and his legendary habit of secret gift-giving gave rise to the traditional model of Santa Claus (“Saint Nick”) through Sinterklaas. (information courtesy of https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Nicholas)
How appropriate that his visit also marked three baptisms at the church, as well as the entrance of a new member into my own family. May we all be able to emulate his generosity of spirit and kindness to others throughout the year. Thanks to our current PP (Parishioner/Photographer) Robin B. for the image.
