Today and every year on December 6, the church honors the memory of Agios Nikolaos, the patron saint of sailors.For this reason, every naval ship, as well as every merchant ship, carries his image.
Apostolos Andreas: Today is the patron saint of Patras
agios Nikolaos is the patron of Alexandroupoli, volos, Galaxidi, Kozani, Polygyros, Sitia and Syros, Agios Nikolaos Lasithi.
Who is celebrating today, according to the calendar
Today, according to the calendar, they celebrate: Nikolaos, Nikolas, Nikos, Nikolos, Nikolis, Nikolakis, Nikoletta, Nikolouda, Nikolitsa, Nikolina, Nikoletta and Nikol.
Nikolaos was born in 270 in Patara, Lycia, to well-to-do Greek parents. He was a bishop in Myra in Lycia (Asia minor),and that is why he is also referred to as Nicholas of Myra,and in the West also called Nicholas of Bari,because his remains can be found in the Italian city of Bari.
at a young age, Nikolaos was orphaned and inherited a large fortune. At first he dedicated himself to the ascetic life and became abbot of the Monastery of Sion in myra, Lycia. When the then Archbishop Myron of Lycia died, the bishops proclaimed Archbishop Nikolaos. From this position he developed intense activity for the protection of the poor and needy by establishing hospitals and charitable institutions. During the persecution of Diocletian, he was crucified.
Saint Stylianos: today celebrates healer and protector of children
But when Constantine the Great ascended to the imperial throne, all the Christians were freed and therefore Nicholas returned to the Archbishop’s throne. according to tradition, he was given the gift of miracles and saved many people, both during his life and after his death. Saint Nicholas died peacefully on December 6, 343. After his death he was called ”myroblytis”, because according to the tradition of the Christian religion, his remains began to pour holy myrrh.
Saint Nicholas festival: Patron Saint of Sailors, the Hellenic Navy and the Coast Guard
Agios Nikolaos is regarded as the patron saint of Sailors, the Hellenic Navy and the coast Guard, cfor miracles related to the sea were reported during his life. According to tradition, Nikolaos was the patron ofof the poor, while also giving gifts to children and people in need, usually in secret, without revealing his identity, that is why the feast of Saint Nicholas in the West, known as Santa Claus (short for Santa Nicolaus), is associated with Christmas and the exchange of gifts.
On Saint Nicholas Day, in our country, predictions are made about how the weather will be in the coming year. on this day ceremonial bread and fish pie are prepared. On the table they also put boiled corn, wheat, fasting dolmades, peppers, beans.
The miracles of Agios Nikolaos
Agios Nikolaos is famous for the miracles he performed. There are many stories where Saint Nicholas saved a sailor from drowning, reduced the waters of the sea, and the most widespread of all is the resurrection of the sailor. The story goes like this: When Saint Nicholas left in an Egyptian ship for Jerusalem, with the intention of seeing the Holy Land and worshiping the Holy Sepulcher of the Lord. At night, he saw in his sleep that he had caught a great storm and that the ship was in danger of sinking.
On the boat were many Christians who were also going to worship. In the middle of their journey a great storm arose, and they all expected to drown at any moment. Agios Nikolaos went down and prayed, begging the Lord to stop the great storm of the sea and the strong winds.Indeed, the wind stopped and the sea became calm.
but a sailor in a storm climbed the mast to mend the sail, slipped and fell on deck and was killed.Then Saint Nicholas went to him, he begged God to resurrect him and the miracle happened. The sailor got uphe stood as if he had woken up from sleep. After this event, there were many of those who contacted the Saint and received his cure.
How has the legacy of Agios Nikolaos influenced modern maritime practices and beliefs?
title: celebrating Agios Nikolaos: An Interview with Maritime Historian Dr. Eleni Kappas
Time.news Editor (E): Good day, Dr. Kappas! It’s a pleasure to have you here as we celebrate Agios Nikolaos, the patron saint of sailors, on this special day, December 6. Can you start by telling us a bit about the significance of Agios Nikolaos in maritime culture?
Dr. Eleni Kappas (K): Thank you for having me! Agios Nikolaos holds a unique place in maritime tradition. He is revered as the protector of sailors and those at sea. His image is carried onboard virtually every naval and merchant ship, serving as a symbol of safety and guidance for those navigating the treacherous waters. This annual celebration underscores the profound respect and reliance that seafarers have on him.
E: That’s fascinating! Given that many places across Greece honour him, can you tell us which cities particularly celebrate Agios Nikolaos and what specific customs they follow?
K: Certainly! Cities like Alexandroupoli, Volos, Galaxidi, kozani, Polygyros, Sitia, and syros all recognize Agios Nikolaos as their patron. Each region has it’s own customs, from festive processions to religious ceremonies. In Patras, where Nikolaos was associated with local lore, celebrations frequently enough include blessings of the waters, where locals seek his protection for the coming year.
E: Speaking of blessings, can you explain the ancient figure of Agios Nikolaos? We no he was born in 270 in Patara.What led to his renowned reputation?
K: Agios Nikolaos was known for his generosity and compassion throughout his life. He was a bishop,and many stories tell of his miraculous deeds,such as secret gift-giving to those in need. These acts of kindness, along with his role as a bishop, established his identity as a spiritual protector. This blend of historical and legendary characteristics contributed to his enduring legacy, particularly among sailors.
E: It’s engaging how myth and history blend! As you mentioned earlier, many individuals today’s name days align with the celebration. Can you tell us more about this tradition and how it is indeed observed?
K: Yes, name days are meaningful in Greek culture. Many peopel named nikolaos or its variants—such as Nikos, Nikola, and Nikoletta—celebrate their name day today. This usually involves receiving blessings, hosting gatherings with family and friends, and expressing gratitude for their namesake. it’s a heartfelt celebration deeply rooted in tradition.
E: That sounds lovely! Looking ahead, how do you see the legacy of Agios Nikolaos evolving in the modern era, especially in relation to maritime practices?
K: As we move further into the technological age, the essence of Agios Nikolaos remains relevant. Modern sailors still face uncertainties at sea, whether in commercial shipping or recreational boating. While many may not be as religious as in the past, the rituals and symbolism associated with his celebrations foster a sense of community and continuity.It’s a way for sailors to connect with their heritage, reminding them that they are part of a long-lasting tradition of mariners who navigated the same seas.
E: Dr.Kappas, thank you for sharing your insights. As we honor Agios Nikolaos today, it’s inspiring to see how his legacy continues to resonate within the maritime community and beyond.
K: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure to discuss the profound impact of agios Nikolaos, and I hope this celebration brings joy and safety to all who venture upon the sea.
E: Absolutely! Happy celebrations to everyone named Nikolaos and to all sailors around the world!
