As people of other nationalities immigrate to America, they bring with them their nation’s heritage and practices, which is often introduced into the culture of their new home.

Tuesday, December 12, 2000

As people of other nationalities immigrate to America, they bring with them their nation’s heritage and practices, which is often introduced into the culture of their new home. It’s no surprise then that Madlain Vander, a Swedish native, is trying to bring a little bit of Scandinavia to her new home here in Austin.

Stancta Lucia day dates back to the fourth century, Vander said. And the day honors a young Italian woman who brought food to the starving people of Sweden during a winter of extreme famine. The Swedes continue to honor the woman who devoted her life to the poor and was eventually beheaded as a martyr.

While the circumstances that surround the memorial are grim, the spirit of the day is not.

Adopted by Norway and Finland as well, St. Lucia Day commemorates giving and kindness.

And it is in that spirit that Vander sought to bring St. Lucia to Austin tomorrow.

Vander contacted the Sons of Norway to gain their support for the event. From there, other groups also signed on to support the St. Lucia festival.

"This is for the whole family," Vander said. "And even though it’s at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, it’s a nondenominational event."

The celebration includes the St. Lucia choir and the saint herself, portrayed by Megan Tappe, 16, New Richland. The youth choir consists of children 7 to 16 years old.

The celebration includes legendary tales, verses and carols about Lucia and her Crown of Candles procession of star boys and gnomes, gingerbread cookies and the ancient Christmas goat, according to Vander. The Sons of Norway will serve the traditional saffron buns, Lussekatter, amnd gingersnaps and pepparkakor after.

"Except for the main choir, I don’t think anyone else is Scandinavian," Vander said, pointing out that the celebration is for everyone, regardless of heritage.

"I don’t want this to become exclusive," Vander continued. "This is a celebration for everyone."

In the true spirit of St. Lucia, the event will benefit the Austin Food Shelf. Those attending are asked to bring a non-perishable food item or provide a cash donation at the door.

"She gave her life to the poor and hungry and we want to remember that," Vander said.

The celebration is a collaborative effort, Vander said. They have sponsors from as far away as St. Peter, and she expects that people will travel from the distance or even further to attend the event.

"This is something that you can’t get anywhere else," Vander said. Although St. Lucia celebrations are also found in the Twin Cities area, this is an exclusive event for southern Minnesota, Vander said.

Lucia Fest is 7 p.m. Wednesday at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 1600 Oakland Ave. W. For more information, contact Vander at 325-2312.