Happy Santa Lucia Day!

Though little has been retained of her story in the factual record, St. Lucy has been a popular saint throughout Europe, most notably in Sicily (whence she hails) and Scandinavia (where her devotion is linked to the Winter Solstice). Lucy was a virgin martyr, most likely offed by a rejected suitor. Her devotion to her vow of virginity is reason enough to venerate her considering it directly resulted in her persecution and death. She has been listed in the litany for centuries, and cultural celebrations in honor of her feastday have developed in complexity and festivity over time, mostly playing on the meaning of her name (Lucia="light").

I hold cherished memories of this day from childhood, though I bear no Swedish ethnicity. As tradition has it in that country, the eldest daughter of the household carries a tray of sweetbreads to the other members of the home on Dec. 13 mornings. As she progresses from room to room, she sings the famous carol, "Santa Lucia".

My mother, when a senior in her high school chorus, was cast in a Christmas pageant featuring a review of all the international folk celebrations of the season. She was chosen to sing the St. Lucy carol; to this day- every St. Lucy Day- my mother sings us the song in flawless Swedish. When we were younger, we would enjoy Orange Pekoe Tea and shortbread cookies after dinner, and more than once my mother wore the wreath of candles.

If you wish to learn more about the special traditions of this day consult the following:
Penitents' Page
School of the Seasons
American Catholic
Catholic Culture