Ever wonder what Christmas celebrations are like in another country? We did! That is why this December we are going to be studying Christmas celebrations in different cultures for our Christmas countdown. We are calling it the 12 Days of Christmas Around the World. Today is day 8, and it’s all about Christmas in Sweden!
The 12 Days of Christmas Around the World
Day 8: What is Christmas like in Sweden?
Verse of the Week
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.
This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
Luke 2:8-14
First Things First
- Read Luke 2
Christmas in Sweden
In Sweden, the Christmas season begins with St. Lucia’s Day (December 13). Supposedly, St. Lucia was a girl known for bringing food to persecuted Christians hiding in the catacombs under Rome in the early 300’s until she was caught and martyred in 304. In order to carry the food, she would wear candles on her head to keep her hands free for food delivery.
These days girls can be seen dressed up as St. Lucia all over Sweden. Many can also be found singing at hospitals and nursing homes while handing out Pepparkakor.
The following well-known Swedish Christmas carol translates “light a candle for everything you believe in, for the planet we live on. Light a candle for the children of the world.”
Books About Christmas in Sweden
- Lucia Morning in Sweden by Ewa Rydaker and Carina Stahlberg
- Christmas in Sweden by Cheryl L. Enderlein
- The Tomtes’ Christmas Porridge by Sven Nordqvist
- The Tomten and the Fox by Astrid Lindgren
Copywork to Share
- Copy the following Bible verse onto some Christmas stationary, and share it with a friend or family member as an early Christmas present.
Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. Luke 2:11 (NIV)
Christmas Math
Craft
Want to participate in the entire 12 Days of Christmas Around the World? You can check out all the posts rights here on the 12 Days of Christmas Around the World home page. Be sure to pin it while you are at it so you can refer back to it year after year!