St. Lucy's Wreathe of Light

Fr. Scott A. Haynes

The imagery of St. Lucy wearing a wreath of candles on her head is a powerful and evocative symbol with both spiritual and historical significance. This depiction reflects themes of light, purity, and sacrifice, all central to her identity as a virgin-martyr and a saint whose name means "light" (lux in Latin).

Luciafest

Spiritual Symbolism

1. Light as a Symbol of Christ

   The candles represent Christ, the Light of the world, as proclaimed in the Gospel:

“I am the light of the world: he that followeth me, walketh not in darkness, but shall have the light of life” (John 8:12, Douay-Rheims).

• As a witness to Christ, St. Lucy embodied this light through her unwavering faith and her martyrdom. Her imagery reminds us that Christians are called to be "the light of the world" (Matthew 5:14), illuminating the darkness of sin and despair with the hope and love of the Gospel.

• A Crown of Martyrdom

  The wreath itself signifies victory over sin and death, a crown promised to those who remain faithful to Christ. As St. James wrote:

“Blessed is the man that endureth temptation; for when he hath been proved, he shall receive a crown of life, which God hath promised to them that love him” (James 1:12).

• The candles, burning brightly atop this crown, symbolize the spiritual radiance of her martyrdom, her soul shining eternally in the presence of God.

• Purity and Inner Illumination

  The wreath of candles also underscores Lucy's purity and virginity, virtues she preserved for the sake of her consecration to God. The light serves as a metaphor for the inner illumination of her soul, reflecting her holiness and commitment to living as a vessel of divine grace.

Historical Roots of the Candle Wreath

The association of a candle wreath with St. Lucy is especially prominent in Nordic countries, where her feast is celebrated with the "Festival of Light." According to tradition, during times of persecution, Lucy would secretly bring food to Christians hiding in the catacombs of Rome. To free her hands for carrying provisions, she wore a wreath of candles on her head to light her way. This act of charity aligns with her Gospel-inspired generosity and her desire to serve Christ in the poor.

This tradition later merged with local customs in Scandinavia, where the long, dark winters heightened the symbolic importance of light. During Luciafest, a young girl dressed as St. Lucy dons a white robe (symbolizing purity) and a wreath of candles, leading a procession that celebrates light triumphing over darkness.

Connection to Her Name and Mission

The image of St. Lucy with a candle wreath ties directly to her name and mission as a bearer of light. Her steadfast faith and courageous martyrdom serve as a beacon for Christians striving to live out their faith in difficult times. The burning candles reflect her zeal for Christ and the enduring flame of divine love in her soul.

In the words of St. Augustine, light represents the "eternal truth and wisdom of God, who illuminates the hearts of the faithful" (Confessions, Book VII). St. Lucy, as a vessel of this light, continues to inspire the faithful to walk in the radiance of Christ’s truth and love.

Contemporary Inspiration

The imagery of St. Lucy with a wreath of candles encourages us to carry the light of faith into the darkness of our world. Her story and symbolism remind us that even in times of trial, we are called to reflect the light of Christ, bringing hope, charity, and truth to those around us.

Through her intercession, may we too become lights in the world, living lives of holiness and love that point others toward the eternal light of God.