During Gustavus Adolphus College’s 63rd annual Festival of St. Lucia, to be held Thursday, Dec. 9, one sophomore and four of her classmates will be selected to serve as St. Lucia and the Lucia Court.
This year’s St. Lucia and court are:
St. Lucia
- Megan Buckingham from Waverly, Iowa
Lucia Court Members
- Tessa Carlsen from Stillwater, Minn.
- Michelle Clark from Eden Prairie, Minn.
- Emily Fremont from Woodbury, Minn.
- Megan Richards from Fargo, N.D.
Candidates are selected based on academic achievement, spiritual leadership, and involvement in community service. Each year since 1941, a St. Lucia and court have been named at Gustavus. The annual celebration at the Swedish-founded college features early morning caroling by St. Lucia and her court, a special ceremony at 10 a.m. in Christ Chapel to crown St. Lucia, a traditional Scandinavian luncheon, and a holiday bake sale.
The tradition is celebrated to commemorate the incredible courage shown by Lucia who, according to legend, was put to death for being Christian and helping the poor.
On Dec. 13 in homes throughout Sweden, the eldest daughter plays the role of St. Lucia — preparing and serving baked goods and coffee to her family at sunrise while singing. Wearing a crown of lighted candles, Lucia represents the return of light that will end the long winter nights and serves as a symbol of hope and peace for the Christmas season.
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