Scroll down to find your free St. Nicholas coloring page download!
St. Nicholas: A Saint of Generosity and Giving
St. Nicholas is one of the most well-loved saints, known for his kindness, generosity, and care for those in need. He is the patron saint of children, sailors, and the poor, and his feast day (December 6th) is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the spirit of giving. To help children engage with his story, I’ve created a free St. Nicholas coloring page that you can download and print!
Who Was St. Nicholas?
St. Nicholas was a bishop who lived in the 4th century in what is now Turkey. He was known for his deep love for God and his acts of charity, often giving to the poor in secret. One of the most famous stories about him tells how he secretly provided gold coins for three sisters who had no dowry, saving them from a difficult future. This story is one of the reasons why he is associated with gift-giving and later became the inspiration for Santa Claus!
Did You Know?
Did you know that in many countries, children put out their shoes on the night of December 5th, hoping St. Nicholas will fill them with treats? This tradition is based on the stories of St. Nicholas secretly leaving gifts for those in need.
How to Use This Printable:
This coloring page is a simple yet meaningful way to introduce children to St. Nicholas. Here are a few ways you can incorporate it into your home or classroom:
- Feast Day Celebration: Use it as an activity on December 6th to talk about St. Nicholas and how we can follow his example of generosity.
- Acts of Kindness Challenge: Encourage children to do a secret good deed for someone else—just like St. Nicholas did! It could be leaving a kind note, sharing a treat, or helping a sibling.
- Bible Study: Pair the coloring page with a reading about generosity.
- Here’s a passage to read together: 2 Corinthians 9:7 (find reflection questions below the printable)
Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
Download Your Free St. Nicholas Coloring Page!
Click the link below to download and print your free St. Nicholas coloring page:
Click here to download your PDF “St. Nicholas: Free Printable PDF” (Version 1)
Click here to download your PDF “St. Nicholas: Free Printable PDF” (Version 2)
Reflection:
After reading the passage, ask the children:
- What does it mean to be a “cheerful giver”?
- How do you feel when you give something to someone else?
- Why do you think St. Nicholas gave to others in secret?
- Can you think of a way to be generous today?
- How can we share what we have with those in need?