A solstice celebration at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Swannanoa Valley, 2010
St. Lucy's Day, Dec. 13, 2024
The observance commemorates Lucia of Syracuse, an early-fourth-century virgin martyr under the Diocletianic Persecution. According to legend, she brought food and aid to Christians hiding in the Roman catacombs, wearing a candle-lit wreath on her head to light her way, leaving both hands free to carry as much food as possible. Because her name means "light" and her feast day had at one time coincided with the shortest day of the year prior to calendar reforms, it is now widely celebrated as a festival of light.
I remember singing Santa Lucia early on the feast day, and having wonderful Swedish pastries.
Thanks to Sweedish blogger Dawn Treader, for sharing this video of a candle experience for Santa Lucia.
Winter Solstice is Dec. 21, 2024. Then days will start to become longer.
"LUCIA AT LAST" by Lisa Aisato.
Today's quote:
