This year St. Ansgar will hold its St. Lucia Festival on Sunday, December 9th at 4PM.The event is free and open to the public.
What is the St. Lucia Festival? It is a Swedish Christian tradition that dates from the 14th century. According to the old Julian calendar, December 13th was the longest night of the year, and thus marked the first step toward spring, with its promise of light and sunshine. It is on this date that the people of Sweden celebrate the Lucia Festival. Christian legend has it that the Romans betrayed Lucia. Later, Vikings impressed by her faith, are said to have brought her legend to Scandinavia from Sicily, where she is the patron saint of fishermen.
Every year at Saint Ansgar, the St. Lucia legend is told. Authentic Swedish carols are sung, a young woman from the congregation is crowned the "Queen of Light, " and traditional Scandinavian refreshments are served. Come and enjoy one of our favorite Christmas traditions.
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