Millions of Swedes are visiting churchyards this weekend to light candles for departed loved ones. All Saints' Weekend has become more popular than Christmas and Advent in Sweden.
Roughly one in three Swedes will visit a churchyard, church, or chapel during the weekend. The tradition brings people together to remember those who have passed away.
Nina Sagovinter, a priest and national coordinator for the On-Call Priest service, explained the importance of the ritual. She said remembering and making space for death matters deeply to people.
Sweden ranks among the world's most secular countries, yet this religious holiday draws increasing numbers each year. People find comfort in performing concrete actions like lighting candles.
Sagovinter noted that the physical act of lighting a candle at a gravesite or at home provides meaningful connection. She also emphasized the value of reflecting on mortality itself.
The tradition shows how even in highly secular societies, people still seek rituals that honor life and death. The candle lighting creates visible community across Swedish cities and towns.
This Nordic tradition demonstrates how modern societies maintain connections to cultural heritage. The growing participation suggests people crave meaningful rituals despite declining formal religious affiliation.