December 1, 2015 WBAS Prayer of the Week, WBAS Seasonal Feast Days & Holy Days
By: Kathy Hendricks
The candy cane is a treat often associated with Saint Nicholas, the patron and protector of children. The crook symbolizes the gentle image of Jesus, the Good Shepherd. Celebrate Saint Nicholas Day on December 6 with a printable prayer service and blessing and sharing of candy canes. Download your Saint Nicholas prayers now!
Saint Nicholas Day Candy Cane Prayer
The candy cane is a treat often associated with Saint Nicholas Day. Its distinctive shape is attributed to a 17th century German choirmaster, who bent the candy into the form of a shepherd’s staff and gave it to children attending church services. The crook symbolizes the gentle image of Jesus, the Good Shepherd. As shepherd of his people, a bishop carries a hook-shaped staff called a crosier. Since Saint Nicholas was also a bishop, the candy cane serves as a perfect symbol for this patron and protector of children. Celebrate Saint Nicholas Day with a blessing and sharing of candy canes. Download the Saint Nicholas Day Blessing of Candy Canes Prayer Card in Spanish or English.
Saint Nicholas Day Prayer Service
Saint Nicholas is an example of kindness and generosity for us today. This year, as we prepare for Christmas, we should remember Nicholas's acts of selfless charity as we give our Christmas gifts. Download a prayer service to celebrate Saint Nicholas and share it with students and families in your religious education program. Not only is this prayer service a great resource for the classroom, but also can be shared with parents and guardians to promote catechesis in the home. Available in Spanish and English.
