Saint of the Day
St. Lucy of Syracuse
Lucy (c. 283–304) was a young Christian noblewoman from Syracuse, Sicily, who consecrated her virginity to God and distributed her wealth to the poor. When her intended husband denounced her to the Roman authorities during Diocletian's persecution, she was martyred for her faith. Her name, from the Latin lux (light), made her a natural symbol of Christ as Light of the world, and her feast near the winter solstice gave her special significance in Scandinavian traditions, where she is celebrated by candlelight processions.
Scripture Reading
John 1:4-5
In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
Reflection
St. Lucy, whose name means "light," chose martyrdom rather than extinguish her faith. On one of the darkest days of the year in the old calendar, her feast shines as a defiant flicker. John's great declaration stands behind her story and ours: the light shines, and the darkness — no matter how thick, no matter how long — has never and will never overcome it.
Prayer for Today
That all people with disability, their families and support workers, will know Your tender love expressed through the support of a welcoming community.
We pray to the Lord.
We pray to the Lord.
Amen.