How to Attend Midnight Mass
The Midnight Mass, held at the stroke of midnight as Christmas Eve ticks into Christmas Day, has its origins in the belief that Christ was born at exactly that hour.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
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1
Call ahead to find out what time the service starts. Some services begin earlier than midnight and continue through the midnight hour.
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2
Arrive early. People generally begin arriving at least an hour early, and the chapel may be filled before the service begins.
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3
Dress appropriately. Wearing old jeans or other very casual clothes is not appropriate.
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4
Open your heart to the spirit and symbolism of Christmas portrayed in the Mass. There will usually be lots of sacred music, Christmas decorations, candles, scripture readings and perhaps a crèche.
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5
Take communion only if you are qualified to do so; discuss this beforehand with a local priest if you have questions about your status. If you are not going to take communion, sit quietly while others do. It is considered rude to leave during this part of the service.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Non-Catholics are welcome to attend the Mass. Simply follow the lead of the priest or others around you if you're not sure what to do.
If you are asked to "give each other the sign of peace," shake the hand of a stranger and give a quick kiss or hug to a family member.
If you are given a candle when you arrive, you may be asked to light it at a special time during the service.
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Comments
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revdave
Dec 22, 2008
for a more informal service: Go Church of England, the service is the same but in most places jeans are accepted, bowing and crossing yourself are optional and its a beautiful but relaxed. Only steps 1 and 4 apply. 5 is less of an issue, you can go and receive a blessing (get prayed for) or if you've been baptised as an adult or confirmed in any church denomination you are welcome. If in doubt ask the Vicar. Some c of e will be as formal as the writer suggests, but very few nowadays. (Trust me I'm a vicar!) -
revdave
Dec 22, 2008
for a more informal service: Go Church of England, the service is the same but in most places jeans are accepted, bowing and crossing yourself are optional and its a beautiful but relaxed. Only steps 1 and 4 apply. 5 is less of an issue, you can go and receive a blessing (get prayed for) or if you've been baptised as an adult or confirmed in any church denomination you are welcome. If in doubt ask the Vicar. Some c of e will be as formal as the writer suggests, but very few nowadays. (Trust me I'm a vicar!)
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Jul 26, 2006
It is not necessary that you kneel if this is not the custom of your own church. Be aware that the person kneeling behind you will rest his/her hands on the back of your seat. It is therefore polite to move forward in your seat so that the other person has room (and does not wind up breathing down your neck). Catholics stand frequently. It is not necessary that you do so with one exception. You should, if you are able, stand while the Gospel is read. Sitting during this time may be considered offensive.
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Jul 26, 2006
It is not necessary that you kneel if this is not the custom of your own church. Be aware that the person kneeling behind you will rest his/her hands on the back of your seat. It is therefore polite to move forward in your seat so that the other person has room (and does not wind up breathing down your neck). Catholics stand frequently. It is not necessary that you do so with one exception. You should, if you are able, stand while the Gospel is read. Sitting during this time may be considered offensive.
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Jan 05, 2006
At the beginning and end of a prayer Catholics say/do this little thing: In the name of the father (touch forehead), the son (touch stomach), and the holy (touch left shoulder) spirit (touch right shoulder), Amen. Use your right hand.
