The Franklin Unitarian Universalist Congregation will be holding its annual Santa Lucia Tea on Saturday, December 10 at 4 PM. This distinctive holiday event celebrates Santa Lucia (Saint Lucy) and originates in Sweden, where Santa Lucia is celebrated as the patron saint of light.

Traditionally, Santa Lucia’s feast day was marked by lighting fires and candles, symbolizing the return of the longer days of winter. Traditional Swedish ceremonies also involve candles and lights, and that is true of the Santa Lucia Tea in Franklin. The Social hall is adorned with traditional Swedish Christmas decorations, including angel chimes and many candles. The big Christmas tree is lit in the background. Women from the congregation serve tea and a host of sweet treats.

As night falls, the lights dim, a hush falls, and the ceremony begins. First come the Star Boys and Girls, younger children clad in white and carrying silver stars atop small staffs. Then “Santa Lucia” appears wearing a white dress with a red sash and a beautiful crown of real, lit candles.

Singing the Santa Lucia song, she hands out special saffron rolls (prepared according to the traditional recipe) to everyone gathered. After the ceremony, she makes her exit, and the evening continues with a variety show featuring members of the congregation.

In recent years the program has included instrumental music, poetry readings, dance performances, and the choir singing silly songs. After the talent show, everyone sings holiday carols, this year accompanied by Libby Danahy, one of the congregation’s musicians.

The Santa Lucia Tea will be on Saturday, December 10, from 4 to 6 PM in the Unitarian Universalist Meeting House at 206 Central Street in Franklin, the yellow and brown building just over the bridge from downtown Franklin next to the Peabody Home and the VFW hall.

For more information contact Mary Ahlgren, Parish Committee member, at MaryAhglren@nullgmail.com or 393-7934.