Depending on tradition and country, Midnight Mass does not occupy the same place in the Christmas celebrations. It can be held in the early evening, later in the night, or even on the morning of the 25th. More than a century ago, three Midnight Masses were celebrated: one…
Although Christmas is a Christian celebration celebrating the birth of the baby Jesus, it was originally intended to be a pagan celebration. In those early days, the festival took various forms, marking the rebirth of the unconquered sun, or winter solstice, as well as the Roman Saturnalia, both of which took place on December 25th.
If there is one country where Christmas has always been, first and foremost, a religious holiday, it is Ireland! Over the past 15 years, however, the celebration of the holiday has gradually become more secular, but it still remains a major event. Family On December 25, family members gather in…
Although their origins are unknown, a few legends circulate around the world on Christmas Eve, mainly during Midnight Mass. Some are terrifying, while others are quite astonishing. But whatever the case, these legends still circulate, and old people take great pleasure in telling them to children...
According to some beliefs stemming from pagan festivals, many superstitions are associated with Christmas. Some of them are said to bring misfortune and dramatic events, while others bring good luck. Judging by these superstitions, Santa Claus is not the only one roaming around on the night of the 24th…
Christmas and New Year at the Vatican On December 24 and January 1, millions of people will have access to Pope Benedict XVI's messages. Translations into Chinese and Arabic in addition to the usual languages. The Pope's program: – December 24 live on BBC4 from 8:45 a.m. – December 24, 6 p.m. lighting of the "…
Come Divine Messiah is probably one of the oldest Christmas carols, as it most likely dates back to a very distant past. However, since there are very few traces of this popular song, there is no way of pinpointing the exact year it was composed. As for its…
