December 6: Saint Nicholas Day, Signs and What You Absolutely Should Not Do.

According to ТСН: Tomorrow, December 6, is celebrated in the Orthodox church calendar as the memorial day of Saint Nicholas, Archbishop of Myra in Lycia. He was born around 270 AD in the city of Patara, in present-day Turkey (Lycia province), to a devout family. His parents, Theophan and Nika, were wealthy but devoted to Christ; they raised Nicholas with an emphasis on piety and charity. After losing his parents at a young age, he inherited their wealth and generously distributed it to those in need.

Nicholas exhibited extraordinary spirituality and a desire to serve the Lord. He became a priest and was later elected as the Archbishop of Myra in Lycia (modern-day Demre, Turkey). His ministry was marked by wisdom, strictness toward himself, and a great love for the people.

According to legend, he secretly tossed gold coins to the three daughters of a poor man, giving them the opportunity to marry and avoid debt slavery. This story became the basis for the tradition of giving gifts in his honor.

In 325, Nicholas participated in the First Council of Nicaea, where the unity of the Christian faith was discussed and the heresy of Arianism was condemned. According to traditions, he fiercely opposed Arius, and some sources even mention that during an argument he struck Arius. This testified to his passionate beliefs in the truth of the Christian faith.

Nicholas departed this world around 343 in Myra. His funeral was marked by great honor, and centuries later his remains were transported to the Italian city of Bari, where they are kept in the Basilica of Saint Nicholas.

Signs for December 6

• Snow on December 6 promises long and snowy winters.

• A warm day of Saint Nicholas indicates that spring will come early, but a cold winter will last longer.

• Frosts on Saint Nicholas promise a great harvest the following year.

What You Should Not Do Tomorrow

According to popular beliefs, one should not succumb to sadness or sorrow — this could lead to severe frosts. It is also believed that Saint Nicholas punishes strictly those who violate the traditions and prohibitions of this day.

What You Can Do Tomorrow

Throughout this day, Orthodox Christians address Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker with sincere prayers: for healing from diseases, assistance in important matters, financial well-being, happy marriage or engagement, easy childbirth, and the gift of children. It is said that the saint hears every prayer that comes from the heart and never leaves unanswered those who sincerely turn to him.

Saint Nicholas Day holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for Orthodox Christians. This holiday honors the kindness, generosity, and mercy that characterized the saint in his life. The traditions associated with the celebration of this day remind people of the importance of helping each other and maintaining hope in difficult times. By celebrating this day, we also feel a connection to generations that honored Saint Nicholas for his good deeds and miracles.