His true story became today's legend of Santa Claus. He may be known as Santa Claus today, but his real name was Nicholas. His true story became today's legend of Santa Claus. A Christian bishop, Nicholas's generosity was a faith-filled response to God's own gift--His only Son, Jesus Christ. With Saint Nicholas, parents, teachers, and grandparents can teach children of all ages that Christmas is a time to celebrate that God showers His love upon them through Christ and that gift giving is in grateful response to that love.