This celebration is linked to the relic of the manger that is kept at the basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore of Rome and its origin is very ancient, probably dating back to Pope Sixtus III in the 5th century.
Nowadays, the Midnight Mass is not necessarily celebrated at midnight, but the Vatican has changed its schedule, and it is generally celebrated before midnight on Christmas Eve. In any case, the time at which the Midnight Mass is celebrated does not detract from its value, as long as we keep the prayers and the meaning of the Christian Christmas.
The Midnight Mass is one of the most cherished traditions of the liturgy. It takes place in an atmosphere of joy and hope. The liturgy highlights the importance of the birth of Christ as the Savior, bringing with him the promise of redemption and the reconciliation of humanity with God.
During the celebration we read the Gospel of Luke 2:1-14, the passage that narrates the birth in Bethlehem of the Son of God and the announcement to the shepherds, which, together with Matthew's narration, inspired the representation of the Nativity scenes.
In the Midnight Mass we emphasize the symbolism of light in the darkness. The candles that are lit during the celebration represent the light of Christ that dispels the darkness of sin and ignorance. This symbolism reflects our belief in Jesus as the Light of the World.
Also introduced at Mass, celebrated by the Pope at the Vatican and elsewhere, is the custom of singing or reading, in the manner of a Christmas proclamation, the text of the Martyrology for Christmas Day, entitled The song of the Calenda. It traces all of history from the creation of the world to that moment, in the fullness of time, when the Word made his dwelling among us.
In addition to celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, the Midnight Mass is also a time of spiritual preparation for the coming of the Savior. That is why it is advisable to participate in the Sacramental Confession as part of the preparation for receiving the Eucharist during Mass.
Finally, another very important detail, both in the Midnight Mass and in all Christmas celebrations, is the importance of the word today, which underlines that our celebration is a living and present event, and not a mere memory of the past.
The history of the Midnight Mass goes back to Catholic tradition and has its roots in the liturgy of the Church. Most historians agree that it was Pope Sixtus III who, during the 5th century, instituted the custom of celebrating a midnight vigil Mass at midnight on the day of Jesus' birth in Bethlehem. The celebration began with a midnight prayer, mox ut gallus cantaveritThe cock crowing, as this was the time of the beginning of the day for the ancient Romans.
On the other hand, the name of this celebration can also be related to the figure of the rooster, which in the Christian tradition symbolizes vigilance and the light that announces the new day. It is associated with the fact that the rooster crows at dawn, marking the beginning of a new day. In the context of the Mass of the Rooster, this symbolizes the arrival of Jesus as the Light of the World.
During the Middle Ages, the Mass of the Rooster was consolidated as a common practice in the liturgy of the Church. The connection between the rooster and the announcement of Jesus' birth was strengthened, and the Mass was traditionally scheduled in the early morning hours, representing the idea of light entering the darkness.
Over time, the Midnight Mass also became a popular tradition, and Christian communities began to participate in it as part of the Christmas celebrations. It became an opportunity for Christians to gather as a community to celebrate Christmas and reflect on the meaning of Christ's birth.
Today, the Midnight Mass is a fundamental part of Christmas celebrations for many of us. Pope Francis continues to celebrate this Mass in St. Peter's Basilica, just as Sixtus III did, while local churches and parishes maintain the tradition as well.
How is the Midnight Mass celebrated in other countries?
This celebration in Spain and around the world brings together entire communities. It is a time when we come together to collectively celebrate what the Holy Family represents for all Christians. Although the Midnight Mass varies in different places, and local traditions often influence the way it is carried out.Ā
In Spain, the Misa del Gallo is also known as the Christmas Eve Mass. The offering is accompanied by family celebrations and community activities. After Mass, it is common for people to share a special Christmas Eve dinner with family and friends. Others also have dinner before and celebrate Mass at midnight.
In Mexico, to celebrate the Misa del Gallo (Midnight Mass), churches are usually beautifully decorated for the occasion. After Mass, people participate in the Posada, a procession that represents Mary and Joseph's search for an inn. The procession is followed by festive celebrations with music, dancing and food.
In Italy, the Midnight Mass is known as the "Misa del Gallo". la Messa di Mezzanotte (Midnight Mass). The celebration includes traditional music and singing. After the Mass, many Italian families gather for a festive dinner known as la Vigil Dinner which often includes fish dishes.
In Poland, the Midnight Mass is known as the Pasterka. Many people attend Mass in the hope of experiencing a moment of tranquility and reflection. After the Mass, Polish families share the WigiliaThe Christmas Eve dinner begins with the appearance of the first star in the sky.
These are just a few examples, and the Midnight Mass may have variations and particularities in different regions and cultures. The diversity of these celebrations reflects the richness of Christmas traditions around the world.
In case we cannot attend the Midnight Mass, but we do not want to miss it, it can be followed live on the Vatican's official channel and at Vatican Newswhich broadcasts it live from St. Peter's Basilica.
