Chaplain Brian Johnson lights the traditional crown of candles for Emily Barnard, St. Lucia 2005.
During Gustavus Adolphus College’s 65th annual Festival of St. Lucia, on Thursday, Dec. 8, Emily Barnard was crowned as St. Lucia with Alicia Blomquist, Barbara Guy, Kathleen LeBlanc, Carlie Mauss, and Lindsay Peak serving as the Lucia Court.
These women 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 tradition is celebrated to commemorate the incredible courage shown by St. 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.
The annual celebration at the Swedish-founded college features early morning caroling by St. Lucia and her court, a ceremony to crown St. Lucia in Christ Chapel, a traditional Scandinavian Smörg
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Media Contact: Director of Media Relations and Internal Communication Luc Hatlestad
luch@gustavus.edu
507-933-7510