December 13 marks the commemoration of St. Lucia, who was martyred in 304 AD. She met her death in Syracuse on the island of Sicily, one of the victims of the great persecution of Christians under the Roman emperor Diocletian. Known for her great charity, “Santa Lucia” gave away her dowry and remained a virgin until her execution by the sword. The name Lucia means “light,” and the festivals of light commemorating her life became quite popular throughout Europe, especially in Scandinavia. Her day of remembrance there corresponds with the time of year when there is the least amount of daylight. Lucia is often portrayed in a white baptismal gown, wearing a wreath of candles on her head. Lucia reminds us in this season to look to Jesus, the Light of the World.
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