Saint Nicholas of Myra (circa 270-343) Patron of children, poor people, newlyweds, happy marriages and toy makers After his wealthy parents died in an epidemic, Nicholas inherited a fortune. He used his inheritance to help the poor. He famously saved a penniless father with three daughters from destitution. In the night, Nicholas threw three bags of gold into their house, one for each daughter, to be used as dowries. Known worldwide as “Santa Claus” Nicholas is probably the patron saint of more causes and places than any other saint.