Sankta Lucia Services

Saint Lucy or Sankta Lucia Services are held at a growing number of locations throughout the UK, though the origins of the festival lie in Scandinavia. St Lucy was a fourth century Christian martyr and her feast day is December 13th; she is associated with bringing light into the winter darkness.The traditional events follow the Swedish pattern of a candle-lit procession in church  with special carols and readings, led by a girl representing the Saint wearing white robes with a crown of blazing candles. It’s a visual spectacular which probably explains its recent growth in popularity, and it fits well into the Advent services in the lead-up to Christmas.

Helpful Hints

A number of churches in the UK host Sankta Lucia services, particularly in towns which have current or historical associations with Sweden; they’re often held on a day near December 13th rather than on the date itself. The services are a relatively recent occurrence in the UK, dating in the main to the 21st century, though following ancient Swedish precedent. Click the links below to find out more.

In York Minster, in 2024 it should be on Monday 16th December  at 7 pm- it’s a free but ticketed event. The service finishes by 9pm  (approx) and is often though not invariably on a Friday each year. While you’re there look out for the biggest advent wreath in the world, hung below the crossing. Click here for the website: http://yorkminster.org

In Hexham, it  should be on Monday 16th December at 7pm in 2024- it didn’t happen in 2023 but is on most years. Admission is by ticket obtainable from the Abbey Shop (from October) costing £7.50 in 2022. It’s often held on a Thursday but not invariably. Click here for more: https://www.hexhamabbey.org.uk 

In some years, services have been held at Birmingham and Hull, but currently they’re not happening as far as I can find out.

For more venues click here:http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=sv&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.svenskakyrkan.se%2Flondon

Photo (above) by  Nyman.