The evolution of Santa Claus from the historical figure of Saint Nicholas could help families reconnect with the true spirit of Christmas and minimize its commercialization. In a recent commentary, author Mike McGrew reflects on his experiences portraying Saint Nicholas at Christmas markets, where he noted a surprising lack of awareness among children and parents about the origins of Santa Claus.
Despite the jolly image of Santa that many cherish, McGrew argues that the modern portrayal often overshadows the deeper values associated with Saint Nicholas, who is known for his kindness and compassion towards the needy. “Our secular Santa has been hijacked by marketeers to stimulate our desires,” he states, emphasizing the stark contrast between today’s commercial Santa and the historical figure whose legacy is rooted in generosity.
To foster a greater understanding of Saint Nicholas, McGrew suggests various approaches that families and communities can adopt. He proposes that families should learn about how Saint Nicholas, originally from what is now Turkey, used his inheritance to care for orphans and support the poor. By sharing stories of his life, the spirit of giving can be revived in a way that transcends mere commercialism.
Bringing Saint Nicholas Back to Christmas
Churches and community groups could play a pivotal role in this effort. McGrew recommends reenacting key events from Nicholas’s life, such as his imprisonment by Emperor Diocletian for his beliefs and his eventual release under Emperor Constantine. Such performances could provide engaging historical context that highlights the virtues that made Nicholas a revered figure in Christian traditions.
Another suggestion is to celebrate December 5, known as Saint Nicholas Eve, by encouraging children to leave out their shoes for treats. This practice could be reimagined to reflect the legacy of Nicholas’s generosity, with children also planning acts of kindness for the less fortunate.
McGrew highlights the universality of Santa through his various names worldwide, such as Papai Noel in Brazil, Weihnachtsmann in Germany, and Shengdan Laoren in China. By introducing children to these diverse traditions, families can foster a sense of global connection to the spirit of giving that Saint Nicholas embodies.
Connecting Generations Through Tradition
Educational games that explore the historical transformation of Sinterklaas into Santa Claus can also ignite interest among children. Learning about Santa’s early depictions, which were more solemn and thin, allows children to appreciate how his image evolved over time, including the iconic red suit popularized by Coca-Cola and illustrated by Thomas Nast in the late 19th century.
McGrew also suggests that families share stories linking Christmas traditions, like hanging stockings, to the legends surrounding Nicholas, such as the tale of him tossing gold coins through chimneys to aid three impoverished sisters. These narratives can serve to underline the true meaning of Christmas as a celebration of kindness and community spirit.
By emphasizing Nicholas’s virtues and his role as a saint, families can inspire each other to embody the spirit of Santa throughout the year. McGrew concludes that everyone has the potential to become a “Santa” in their own right through acts of kindness and generosity, encouraging a more profound appreciation of what Christmas truly represents.
In a world increasingly focused on consumerism, the call to rediscover the true essence of Santa Claus through the lens of Saint Nicholas offers a refreshing perspective that could enhance the joy of the holiday season for generations to come.
