In this issue:

• St. Nicholas Day BINGO

• NO BINGO December 27

• Wednesday Night BINGO

• The Story of St. Nicholas

  • Tim's Dad Joke of the Week

St. Nicholas Day BINGO

🎁 Friday is St. Nicholas Day! 🎁 And at Friday night bingo, someone might be walking away with more than candy in their shoes! 😉 A jackpot of an estimated $9,800 will be a nice Christmas gift for someone. 🎅

NO BINGO December 27

We will be taking a one week break after Christmas. BINGO will resume for our 2025 season on Friday, January 3rd.

Wednesday Night BINGO

Heads up, hockey and skating Wednesday Night BINGO Fans! No Bingo on Wednesdays, December 11th or 25th.

The Story of St. Nicholas

The story of St. Nicholas is a fascinating blend of history and legend, making him a figure of enduring fascination and the inspiration for Santa Claus.

The Historical Nicholas:

• Early Life: Nicholas was born in Patara (modern-day Turkey) around 280 AD to wealthy Christian parents. He was known for his piety and generosity from a young age.

• Bishop of Myra: Nicholas became Bishop of Myra, also in modern-day Turkey. He was known for his defense of the Christian faith during a time of persecution.

• Generosity: Stories abound about Nicholas's generosity, particularly towards children and the poor. He was said to have given away his inheritance to help those in need.

Legends and Miracles:

• The Dowry Story: Perhaps the most famous legend tells of Nicholas providing dowries for three poor sisters who couldn't marry without them. He secretly tossed bags of gold through their window, saving them from a life of poverty.

• Saving Children: Another story recounts Nicholas calming a storm at sea, saving sailors from shipwreck. He was also said to have resurrected three children who had been murdered by a butcher.

• Defender of the Innocent: Nicholas was known for his defense of those falsely accused and imprisoned.

St. Nicholas Today:

• Feast Day: December 6th is St. Nicholas Day, celebrated in many countries with gift-giving and festivities, especially for children.

• Patron Saint: St. Nicholas is the patron saint of sailors, children, merchants, and many cities and countries.

• Santa Claus: Over time, the legends of St. Nicholas evolved into the modern figure of Santa Claus, who brings gifts to children on Christmas Eve.

Q: What did Santa Claus say to the Christmas tree?

A: You need to lighten up.