Sankta Lucia

A bearer of light in a dark world

For nearly 70 years Pacific Lutheran University has been celebrating Sankta Lucia. Our tradition emerges from Sweden which celebrates the Sicilian saint, Sankta Lucia, who stood up for her beliefs in the face of persecution. At PLU, the Lucia is chosen based on an essay and interview process where applicants demonstrate their dedication to service and honoring the core elements of Lutheran higher education. The appointed Lucia is recognized with a $1000 scholarship and a crown of candles.

Normally, the students who apply and participate share their voices with the PLU community at a public concert. However, during the pandemic in 2020, the Lucia Celebration will unfold differently. All tradition is change, as the Swedish folklorist Barbro Klein wrote and this year the Scandinavian Cultural Center will premier a Sankta Lucia video on YouTube, combining scenes from previous Lucia Celebrations at PLU with scenes filmed with this year’s Lucia candidates and attendants. The video will premier on Sunday, December 13, 2020 at 2 PM here https://youtu.be/TT5zd2x1iG4 and thereafter it will be available on PLU’s YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/user/PacificLutheranUniv)

Normally, members of the public are invited to participate as well, particularly children under the age of 13, who wish to share in this traditional Nordic festival. However, due to the pandemic, the normal concert will not occur. We look forward to seeing you all next year!

Normally, the applicants also perform at a local nursing home, where they sing the Lucia songs and other Christmas carols.

To demonstrate their commitment to Sankta Lucia’s devotion to light, food, and service, this year’s Lucia candidates and attendants are raising funds for Feeding Ministry at Trinity Lutheran Church in Parkland, WA, which helps to feed our community and neighbors during these difficult times of a pandemic and economic downturn. The Lucia candidates ask that you give what you can. Click on Here and select to give to either Feeding Ministry or to Feeding Endowment Fund.