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St. Nicholas Village: Volunteers answer 500 letters to St. Nicholas worldwide!
Hubert Weddehage heads the Santa Claus office in Nikolausdorf, where volunteers answer Santa letters every year.
St. Nicholas Village: Volunteers answer 500 letters to St. Nicholas worldwide!
In Nikolausdorf, a small town in the Cloppenburg district, the Christmas season is already in full swing. Hubert Weddehage, a 72-year-old committed citizen, has taken over the Santa Claus office, which has been a centerpiece of the community and the anticipation of the festival for years. He is one of up to 20 volunteers who answer letters to Santa Claus during Advent.[ NDR ] Even before the official opening, around 500 letters were received from all over the world, which will be lovingly answered in the coming weeks.
The tradition of the Santa Claus Office goes back to Weddehage's childhood, who followed in his father's footsteps at the age of 17 and began answering letters. The St. Nicholas Office in Nikolausdorf is one of seven Christmas post offices in Germany, which underlines its importance in the regional and national Christmas tradition.[ South Germans ] The volunteers have resumed their work this week and are working with great dedication to fulfill the wishes of the children and adults.
Letters from all over the world
The letters that arrive from all corners of the world are often characterized by warmth and childlike faith. Some children write about material desires, while others report deeper longings, such as the desire for peace or to be reunited with deceased loved ones. Particularly touching letters receive personal replies, often without the usual standard procedure. Most responses are sent as pre-printed cards, but if something special is needed, volunteers take the time to respond more individually.[ Maltese ]
The atmosphere in the Santa Claus office is characterized by anticipation and a sense of community. In December, up to 20 helpers spend their evenings in the parish hall to view and respond to the submissions. The annual commitment of volunteers is viewed as a matter of honor and makes the Santa Claus Office a special place in Nikolausdorf.[ NDR ] Hubert Weddehage sees his work not only as an obligation, but also as a great joy.
The anticipation of the festival
While St. Nicholas and Santa Claus are busy crafting and planning in many households, the Christmas market between the North Sea and the Harz is starting up again. People look forward to festive encounters and spending time together. In Nikolausdorf, volunteers have already answered their first letters, and thousands more wishes are expected to arrive in the coming weeks.[ South Germans ] The magic of Advent, supported by a dedicated team, brings light and joy to people's hearts.