St. Lucy’s Day: A Celebration of Light and Faith
The Patron Saint of the Blind and Those Born in December
Saint Lucy, also known as Santa Lucia, is widely revered as the patron saint of the blind. However, she could also be considered the patron saint of those born in December. As any Sagittarius knows, their birthday celebrations can often be overshadowed by the festivities surrounding Christmas. But Lucy, a devout Christian, likely wouldn’t mind the overlap, as her feast day, December 13, often blends into the broader Christmas season.
A Holiday Steeped in Tradition
Despite its proximity to the main holiday event, St. Lucy’s Day stands on its own as a significant celebration. It boasts all the hallmarks of a beloved holiday: unique culinary traditions, powerful symbolism, and a captivating backstory.
The Story of St. Lucia
Lucia lived during the 4th century in Syracuse, Sicily, under the rule of Roman Emperor Diocletian. As a young woman, she dedicated her life to serving Christ rather than marrying. This decision angered her betrothed, who denounced her as a Christian to the governor. Lucia was subjected to torture and ultimately met a tragic end.
According to legend, Lucia gouged out her own eyes and presented them to her suitor, symbolizing her unwavering faith in God. She is often depicted holding a pair of eyes on a tray, a reminder of her sacrifice.
St. Lucy’s Day Celebrations
St. Lucy’s Day is celebrated predominantly in Italy and Scandinavia, with each region emphasizing different aspects of the story.
Scandinavian Traditions
In Sweden and other Scandinavian countries, where sunlight is scarce during the winter months, St. Lucy’s Day customs center around themes of light and darkness. Lucia’s name itself means “light.” On this day, young girls don crowns of candles and awaken their families, bearing Lussekatter, special saffron-flavored buns studded with currants or raisins. The golden hue of the buns represents the light that triumphs over darkness during the winter solstice, which coincides with December 13 under the Julian calendar.
Sicilian Traditions
In Sicily, the focus of St. Lucy’s Day celebrations is on another aspect of the legend: the end of a famine that occurred on her feast day when ships carrying grain arrived in the harbor. To commemorate this event, Sicilians traditionally consume whole grains instead of bread on December 13. This custom often takes the form of cuccia, a dish of boiled wheat berries mixed with ricotta and honey, or sometimes served as a savory soup with beans.
Culinary Delights of St. Lucy’s Day
Lussekatter: These sweet yeasted buns are a staple of St. Lucy’s Day celebrations in Scandinavia. Flavored with saffron and studded with currants or raisins, their golden color symbolizes the light that overcomes the darkness of winter.
Cuccia: This Sicilian dish, made from boiled wheat berries, represents the end of the famine that occurred on St. Lucy’s feast day. It can be mixed with ricotta and honey for a sweet treat or served as a savory soup with beans.
A Patron Saint for All
St. Lucy’s unwavering faith and the traditions surrounding her feast day continue to inspire people around the world. Whether you celebrate her as the patron saint of the blind, those born in December, or simply as a symbol of light and hope during the darkest days of winter, St. Lucy’s Day remains a cherished holiday filled with meaningful symbolism and delicious culinary traditions.
