Saint Lucia: a Christian martyr dedicated to Jesus

The feast of Saint Lucia is celebrated every year on 13 December. Saint Lucia is a Christian martyr known for her devotion to Jesus and her resistance to persecution. St Lucia is considered a model of courage and determination. She is often invoked for guidance for those struggling for their faith and for protection from persecution. Saint Lucia, patroness of martyrs, pray for us to be instruments of courage and determination.

Who is Saint Lucia?

Her story

St Lucia is a 4th century Italian Christian martyr, honoured as a saint by both the Catholic and Orthodox Churches. She is usually depicted wearing a crown of candles, as she is celebrated on 13 December, which coincides with the winter solstice. Lucia was a young woman devoted to God and charity for the poor. She was persecuted for her faith and eventually killed for it. The feast of Saint Lucia is celebrated in many countries of the world, especially in the Nordic countries, where she is considered an important figure in the celebration of Christmas.

Her significance

Saint Lucia (or Saint Lucy of Syracuse) was a young Christian martyr of the fourth century, who lived in Sicily. She became a venerated saint in the Catholic and Orthodox Church for her martyrdom, as well as for the miracles she is said to have performed. She is also known as the patron saint of people with eye problems.

Celebration of the Feast of Saint Lucia

Religious rituals

The feast of Saint Lucia is celebrated on 13 December, mainly in the Scandinavian countries, but also in Italy. The religious rituals may vary from region to region, but the most common tradition is the procession of St. Lucia. A young girl dressed in white, wearing a crown of candles on her head, leads the procession of girls also dressed in white and boys wearing pointed hats decorated with stars. The children sing hymns in honour of Saint Lucia as the procession moves through the streets of the town or village. At the end of the procession, typical buns called "lussekatter" are distributed. Other rituals may include vigils, prayers and masses in honour of Saint Lucia.

Prayer to Saint Lucia

Dear Saint Lucia, you who dedicated your life to serving God and helping the poor, intercede for us before our Lord.

Help us to see the light in dark moments, to have hope and trust in the goodness of God.

Guide us to the path of truth and love, and light our way in the darkness of life.

Saint Lucia, you are a model of courage and perseverance, and we thank you for your protection and loving presence.

Please help us to remain strong in our faith, to be kind to others and to spread the light of God's love in the world.

We ask all this in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord.

Amen.