Tradition tells us that Mary's house in Nazareth has been miraculously protected from destruction numerous times. This is the house where the Annunciation happened and the Word became flesh, and most likely the site of Mary's Immaculate Conception. This house has been protected from invasions in the Holy Land which destroyed the Basilica built over the site but left the house intact. Then between 1291 and 1294 this house was transported by angels no less than 3 times, away from the Holy Land, and finally landing in Loreto, Italy.

One fun idea to celebrate Our Lady of Loreto: Work together to build or decorate a gingerbread house!

This holy woman lived in Syracuse during the early 4th century. One likely story about the life of Lucy is that, though Lucy wanted to remain a virgin devoted entirely to Christ, her mother arranged for her to marry a pagan. When Lucy gave her dowry money to the poor, her rejected bridegroom told Roman officials of her faith - this news led to her arrest and torture because of her Christian faith. Lucy's eyes were gouged out, which is why she is often depicted holding a plate with 2 eyes on it. She is the patron saint of eye disorders and the blind. 

In Scandanavian countries, a young girl will dress up as Lucy and bring sweet rolls to her family. This represents the story that Lucy brought food to prisoners in the night, while carrying candles on her head to light the way. 

This year, enjoy some sweet rolls for breakfast on Lucy's feast day!

Lucy's name means "light" - you might also like to load up in the car and look at the beautiful Christmas lights in neighborhoods or special displays like the Way of Lights in Belleville.