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Young Volunteer to be honored in Swedish festival
Southeast Iowa Union offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.
SWEDESBURG - Lilly Heckethorn, a Junior at Winfield-Mt. Union High School and volunteer at the Swedish-American Museum and Historical Society, will be crowned this year’s Saint Lucia on Sunday, Dec. 14.
In a tribute to its Scandinavian heritage, the museum holds this festival every winter. It honors the 4th-century Christian martyr of the same name. The festival will be held at the Swedesburg Parish Hall, commencing at 6p.m. Admittance is free; all are welcome.
Just as Saint Lucia of legend enlightened a dark world, the Saint Lucia of the festival brings light to the dark of winter. She arrives in a white dress, donning a red sash, and a crown of candles (in this case, battery-operated LED candles.) She comes bearing Swedish saffron buns- called “Lussekatter.” Her soon-to-be successor, 8th-grader Tatum Woepking of Columbus Junction, accompanies her as Junior Santa Lucia.
The organizers honored Lilly Heckethorn with this role in recognition of her achievements. In addition to her work at the Museum, Lilly is also involved in basketball, softball, dance team, National Honor Society, student leadership, art club, and family & consumer science. She is part of her church youth group, and has accompanied them to Mexico three times in as many years.
“My church youth group goes to Mexico to serve and spread the love of Jesus!” Heckethorn said. “We spend the week creating relationships with the community in Juarez and fixing homes for people in need. We focus on shining his light. It is truly the highlight of my year.”
Lilly and Tatum will lead a procession of Star Children, representing the star that led the Three Wise Men to a newborn Jesus. Josie and Jema Settles, both former Saint Lucias, will perform a duet, and lead those in attendance in song. By candlelight, The Story of Saint Lucia will be told, and an old tradition will be passed again into the present.
Call Marilyn Higgins at 319-368-8895 or email her at marilyn.higgins@southeastiowaunion.com
