On December 19, Christians of the Eastern Rite celebrate St. Nicholas Day. This is one of the three December holidays that are celebrated in succession: Barbara, Savva and Nicholas. It is not only religious, but also folk, and is especially loved by children..

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What to do on Saint Nicholas Day.

On this day, it is customary to go to church and offer prayers to the saint.. He is asked for protection and intercession and is invoked in various life situations..

This day is considered auspicious for concluding treaties and alliances.. The people believed that Saint Nicholas would not allow deception.

It is also believed that Saint Nicholas goes around the earth on a holiday, driving away evil spirits..

On holidays it is customary to arrange feasts. At the same time, we must remember that St. Nicholas Day falls on the Nativity Fast, which means that only fasting dishes can be served on the table..

The main tradition of St. Nicholas Day is associated with gifts, so children are waiting for the holiday. It is believed that obedient children on this day find gifts under the pillow or in the sock.. For those who are disobedient, the saint leaves rods or coals..

Prayers to Saint Nicholas.

Prayer for protection.

O our all-good father, Nicholas, shepherd and teacher of all who with faith turn under your protection and implore you with sincere prayer: hurry up and protect the flock of Christ from the wolves that destroy it. Protect our Ukraine and every Christian country, and the whole world and save with your holy prayers from an earthquake, the onset of strangers, civil strife; from hunger, pestilence, flood, fire, sword and impudent death of every person of protection.

And just as you have mercy on three men who are in prison, and save them from the wrath of the king and the death penalty, so have mercy on us, that by reason, word and deed we are in the darkness of sins.

Prayer for the fulfillment of desires.

Wonderworker Nikolai, help me in my mortal desires. Do not be angry at the impudent request, but do not leave me in vain affairs. That for the benefit of those who wish, fulfill with your grace. If I want bad, turn away trouble. May all righteous desires be fulfilled, and my life be filled with happiness. May your will be done, Amen.