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. Call ahead to find out what time the service starts.
Some services begin earlier than midnight and continue through the midnight hour.
People generally begin arriving at least an hour early, and the chapel may be filled before the service begins. Wearing old jeans or other very casual clothes is not appropriate. 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 cr che. If you are not going to take communion, sit quietly while others do.