‘Santa Claus’ feast observed

By CHRISTINA HERMOSO
December 5, 2009, 7:42pm

The Catholic faithful celebrate Sunday the feast day of St. Nicholas, more popularly known all over the world as “Santa Claus” or “Father Christmas.”

Venerated as the patron of children, sailors, and voyagers, hundreds of registered candidates.

The Comelec, currently led by Commissoner Rene V. Sarmiento as Officer-in-Charge (OIC) or Acting Chairman pending the arrival from Europe of Chairman Jose A.R. Melo, said the petition to cancel or deny course to a certificate of candidacy could also be based on the ground that the candidate sought to be disqualified has no bona fide intention or genuine interest to run for the office for which the certificate has success, Manny’s earning can go to as high as $40 million,” disclosed Pacquiao adviser Wakee Salud Saturday after the Filipino fighter himself revealed that the Mayweather fight is on.

Salud could not tell exactly how the profits are going to be divided but “a 50-50 sharing should be fair to both fighters.”

Against Miguel Cotto last month, of pilgrims, devotees, and tourists traditionally gather at his major shrine on his feast day, the Basilica di San Nicola in Bari, Italy, as well as in numerous churches dedicated in his memory in many parts of the world.

Honored for many ages, St. Nicholas is one of few Catholic saints who have become a key figure of Christmas.

The Catholic Church also considers him as an Advent saint since his feast day falls during the Advent season.

“As a faithful follower of Christ, St. Nicholas' life clearly reflected the way each one of us is called to show God’s love to others, especially to those in need. St. Nicholas helps us remember Christmas is a feast of love, hope, kindness, and generosity,” Church officials said.

St. Nicholas was born during the 3rd century in Patara, Lycia (Turkey). He served as bishop of Myra, Turkey, where he became popular for his extraordinary piety, zeal, generosity, and love for the poor. He dedicated his life serving God and doing charity work.