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WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 30619 [post_author] => 24 [post_date] => 2023-01-22 19:57:58 [post_date_gmt] => 2023-01-22 19:57:58 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Where to Get Ashes: Table of Contents</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Introduction</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#liturgies">Different Ash Wednesday Liturgies</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#right-service-for-you">Finding the Right Service</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#local-parish">Ashes at Catholic Churches and Local Parishes</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#ashes-to-go">Ashes to Go/Drive-by Ashes</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#airport-chapels">Ash Wednesday at Airports</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#college-campuses">Ash Wednesday on College Campuses&nbsp;</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#more-resources">More Ash Wednesday Resources</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/ash-wednesday/">Ash Wednesday</a> remains an extremely popular day within the Church, as many Catholics (and non-Catholics) will receive ashes–perhaps <a href="https://www.americamagazine.org/faith/2022/03/02/ash-wednesday-catholic-242449">even if they don’t regularly make it to Mass</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Even some non-Christians know the words (“Remember that you are dust, and unto dust you shall return”) and recognize the symbol (the dark forehead smudge of black) that mark this first day of <a href="https://hallow.com/lent/">Lent</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This solemn day “speaks to the existential experience of the human person. All of us are plagued by our choices and our sins,” <a href="https://www.ncregister.com/features/why-is-ash-wednesday-so-popular-and-other-questions-at-the-start-of-lent">according to Father Michael Kapperman</a>, parochial vicar at Sacred Heart Parish.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">To make it easier to participate in Ash Wednesday in 2024, Hallow has assembled this guide exploring where to get ashes whether at home, at college, commuting to work or traveling.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/wheretogetashes">Christians: Pray this Lent with Hallow</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ash Wednesday Liturgies</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":"lent-embed"} --> <p class="lent-embed">The <a href="https://www.olog.church/uploads/8/8/4/5/8845951/ash_wednesday_liturgy_of_the_word.pdf">Book of Blessings</a>, <a href="https://www.autom.com/product/book-of-blessings-brown-cloth-edition-71810?gclid=Cj0KCQiAiJSeBhCCARIsAHnAzT_nRgvz0N9sESEVMTlc0Ox6kbDgSHD-VTCCvO99xr3jxzLGwlybDioaAl5JEALw_wcB">which contains</a> “blessings of the Roman ritual for the Universal Church as well as additional proper blessings for use in the United States,” outlines general guidelines for Ash Wednesday liturgies.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">It tells us that the “...distribution of ashes on Ash Wednesday typically takes place during the celebration of Mass. However, when circumstances require, the blessing and distribution of ashes may take place apart from Mass, during a celebration of the word of God.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In other words, you usually receive ashes at Mass, but there are other ways that parishes can distribute ashes.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">“Getting ashes” can mean attending Mass, but that’s not&nbsp; always the case.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="right-service-for-you">Finding the Right Ash Wednesday Service</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">At full Ash Wednesday liturgies, Mass takes place mostly as normal, save for the omission of the Penitential Act. The distribution of ashes normally occurs after the homily.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":"lent-embed"} --> <p class="lent-embed">However, since the Book of Blessings allows for ashes to be given outside of a full Mass, there are guidelines for services that deacons or lay people lead.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">These services focus on the Liturgy of the Word and help make getting ashes more accessible since a priest is not required.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">As you look for where to get ashes, be aware of these differences and look for the right service for you. Not every service will be a full Mass.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="local-parish">Catholic Churches Near You - Ashes at Your Local Parish</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The first place to look for a place to receive ashes on Ash Wednesday is your nearest Catholic Church.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">If you’re not familiar with the local Catholic churches, you can always visit the USCCB website, which features a <a href="https://www.usccb.org/about/bishops-and-dioceses/all-dioceses">directory of dioceses around the country</a>. From there, use the map “Parish Finder” feature to locate your nearest Catholic Church and browse its website.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Since Ash Wednesday falls outside the regular weekend liturgy schedule, information on ash distribution may not appear prominently on the site. If you’re having trouble, look for a section of the website that may be called “Resources” or “Bulletin.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Most churches include PDF versions of the paper bulletins they hand out on Sundays. This will also certainly contain the schedule for Ash Wednesday.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Other Christian churches, like those of the Lutherans and Methodist faith traditions, also distribute ashes. <a href="https://www.churchfinder.com/">ChurchFinder</a> may help you locate those options.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Not all distribution of ashes takes place inside of churches. In fact, in some places, local churches bring ashes to busy commuter spots to give ashes to people traveling to or from work.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="ashes-to-go">Where to Get Ashes as a Commuter: “Ashes to Go” and Drive-by Ashes</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Although daily Mass is beautiful and absolutely worth your time, many of us don’t attend Mass regularly on Wednesdays. Ash Wednesday is not a <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/holy-days-of-obligation/">Holy Day of Obligation</a>, and it can be a challenge to figure out where and when to get ashes.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In many cities, local churches will meet people where they are at–literally–in bringing ashes to busy hubs of public transportation.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Ash Wednesday is a time to slow down and reflect. When you receive ashes at a train station or other public, you will not experience a full Mass. You also likely won’t participate in the Liturgy of the Word. But you’ll be able to receive ashes as you head to the office.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Here are some options for receiving ashes in cities around the country:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>New York City - Grand Central Station, Newark Penn Station</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Chicago - Union Station (Great Hall)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Washington, D.C. - Capitol Visitors’ Center (if you happen to be a member of Congress!)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Connecticut - Metro North Wilton Station</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Boston - Boston Common</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Sometimes your “commute” might not involve a train, bus or car. Luckily, there are options to get ashes even if you’re flying on Ash Wednesday.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/wheretogetashes">Get Ashes. Start Praying. Download Hallow Now!</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="airport-chapels">Ash Wednesday While Traveling: Ashes at the Airport</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Traveling can be stressful and exhausting, especially when you’ve got things to do before you depart or when you land.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">At many airports around the country, local priests will distribute ashes at airport chapels and interfaith prayer rooms to allow Catholics and other Christians to receive their ashes while on the go.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Current information regarding airport chapel plans and schedules is hard to come by. However, we’ve compiled a list of airports that have distributed ashes in the past and will likely offer them this year as well. If possible, it’s always best to confirm with your local airport before you travel:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Atlanta Hartsfield - ATL</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Charlotte - CLT - (<a href="https://cltairportchapel.org/">Chapel</a>, third floor, Main Terminal)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Chicago O’Hare - ORD</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Chicago Midway - MDW</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Dallas - DFW <a href="http://www.dfwairportchapel.org/ash-wednesday.html">(Meadows Chapel</a>, Anglican priest)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Denver - DEN (<a href="https://www.flydenver.com/traveler_services/religious-facilities">Interfaith chapel</a>)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Houston Bush - IAH&nbsp; (<a href="https://catholicphilly.com/2017/03/news/national-news/houston-airport-chaplains-bring-ashes-sacraments-to-travelers/">Interfaith Chapel</a>, Terminal C)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Minneapolis - MSP&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>New York LaGuardia - LGA</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Orlando - MCO (Main Terminal <a href="https://www.facebook.com/flyMCO/posts/for-those-interested-father-bob-the-airport-chaplain-will-be-distributing-ashes-/10151278215391625/">in corridor near ArtPort</a>)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Pittsburgh -&nbsp; PIT (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/PITairport/posts/for-those-wishing-to-receive-ashes-on-this-ashwednesday-please-make-your-way-to-/10158511553038933/">Interfaith chapel</a>, mezzanine level, airside)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="college-campuses">Ashes on College Campuses</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Nearly all Catholic (and many Christian) colleges and universities will offer some form of Ash Wednesday service.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">If you’re a college student, consult your school’s campus ministry website or social media account for a schedule of activities planned around Ash Wednesday.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">If you live near a Catholic college, it’s also worth exploring. Sometimes, Ash Wednesday services (and other liturgies) are open to local community members.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="more-resources">More Ash Wednesday Resources</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/what-to-give-up-for-lent/">What to Give Up for Lent</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/pray40/">#Pray40</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/lent-prayers/">Lent Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/">How to Pray the Rosary</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> [post_title] => Where to Get Ashes for Ash Wednesday in 2024: Ash Wednesday Services, Ashes to Go, Drive-by Ashes and More  [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => where-to-get-ashes-on-ash-wednesday [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2024-02-13 02:31:57 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-02-13 02:31:57 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=30619 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 30506 [post_author] => 32 [post_date] => 2023-01-13 02:08:25 [post_date_gmt] => 2023-01-13 02:08:25 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Table of Contents&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Intro</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#definition">Defining Holy Days</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#10-holy-days">Holy Days by the Vatican</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#holy-days-america">US Holy Days&nbsp;</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#other-countries">Holy Days in Different Countries</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#not-holy-days">Important Days that are Not Holy Days of Obligation</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#faq">FAQ about Holy Days of Obligation&nbsp;</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">How many Holy Days of Obligation can you name?</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Your answer probably depends on where you live.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">And when you were born.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":"lent-embed"} --> <p class="lent-embed">The Catholic Church has such a rich history, and Holy Days of Obligation represent but a small part of the Church’s story. However, what they celebrate shines a light on the most beautiful truths of our faith.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">They’re not merely requirements. Holy Days of Obligation might better be known as Holy Days of Opportunity–the chance to grow in faith and encounter God through the most important tenets of our faith.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Let Hallow help guide you through everything you need to know about Holy Days of Obligation in the Catholic Church.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/holydaysofobligation">The #1 Catholic App! Try Hallow Today. For Free. </a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="definition">What Is a Holy Day of Obligation?</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Rather than defining Holy Days by what's required (Mass attendance and a refrain from unnecessary work), we might think about Holy Days of Obligation by what they offer: beautiful reminders of important ways God has shown His love for us.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">These are important days in the liturgical year in which we recognize God’s love for us. They&nbsp;require us to attend Mass, just as we’re obligated to attend Mass each week on Sundays.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="10-holy-days">The 10 Holy Days According to Canon Law</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":"lent-embed-es"} --> <p class="lent-embed-es">Holy Days have a long history in the Church. In 1642, Pope Urban <a href="https://uscatholic.org/articles/200807/who-picks-the-holy-days-of-obligation/">reduced</a> the number of Holy Days of Obligation to 36.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In the 1917 <a href="https://www.vatican.va/archive/cod-iuris-canonici/cic_index_en.html">Code of Canon Law</a>, The Vatican listed the following 10 days as Holy Days of Obligation:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Nativity of our Lord Jesus Christ (Christmas)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>The <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/feast-of-the-epiphany/">Epiphany</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>The Ascension&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>The Body and Blood of Christ (<a href="https://hallow.com/blog/corpus-christi/">“Corpus Christi”</a>)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Holy Mary Mother of God</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Immaculate Conception</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Assumption&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>St. Joseph</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Saints Peter and Paul</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>All Saints&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Vatican also gave conferences of bishops the power to suppress Holy Days or transfer them to Sundays (meaning a person could attend Mass on Sunday and fulfill the obligation for the Holy Day.)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This means that Holy Days vary slightly by country.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="holy-days-america">Holy Days of Obligation in the United States in 2025</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In 1991, the <a href="https://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/what-we-believe/canon-law/complementary-norms/canon-1246">USCCB decreed</a> the following Holy Days of Obligation, suppressing days like the Feasts of St. Joseph and Saints Peter and Paul and celebrating the Epiphany on a Sunday each year to come up with the following list of Holy Days of Obligation for American Catholics:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>January 1, the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/solemnity-of-mary-mother-of-god/">Solemnity of Mary</a>, Holy Mother of God</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>May 29 (Thursday of the Sixth Week of Easter) the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/feast-of-the-ascension-of-the-lord/">Solemnity of the Ascension</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>August 15, the Solemnity of the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/feast-of-the-assumption/">Assumption</a> of the Blessed Virgin Mary</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>November 1, the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/all-saints-day-faq-origin-celebrations-and-prayers/">Solemnity of All Saints</a> (Since this falls on a Saturday in 2025, the obligation to attend Mass is abrograted, or lifted. It is not a Holy Day of Obligation in 2025.)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>December 8, the Solemnity of the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/feast-of-the-immaculate-conception-church-teaching-prayers/">Immaculate Conception</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>December 25, the Solemnity of the Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ (Christmas)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Additionally, the bishops decreed that when the Solemnity of Mary, the Assumption and All Saints fall on Saturdays or Mondays, the obligation to attend Mass on that day is canceled. Catholics can attend Mass regularly on Sunday.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Epiphany has been permanently transferred to the first Sunday after January 1 in the U.S.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Finally, there are even differences in how each diocese handles Holy Days. <a href="https://www.usccb.org/events/2022/solemnity-ascension-lord-thursday">In 2022</a> for example, certain archdioceses in the U.S. observed the Ascension on Thursday as a Holy Day of Obligation, while others “transferred” it to Sunday and observed the day then.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Further, within the U.S., Hawaii has aligned its calendar with the Episcopal Conference of the Pacific (CEPAC).</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><a href="https://www.usccb.org/resources/2023cal.pdf">According to the USCBB</a>, “In a decree dated March 23, 1992, the Bishop of Honolulu designated Christmas and the Immaculate Conception as the only two Holydays of Obligation for the State of Hawaii.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="other-countries">Holy Days in Different Countries</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">There is even more variety in Holy Days of Obligation because some countries recognize Holy Days outside of the list the Vatican prescribed.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">On May 17, 1846, U.S. bishops adopted Mary, under the title of her Immaculate Conception–as <a href="https://udayton.edu/blogs/marianlibrary/2015-07-02-patroness-of-usa.php">the country’s patron saint</a>.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Elsewhere, countries celebrate their patron saints on Holy Days of Obligation.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In Ireland, the Feast of <a href="https://www.catholicbishops.ie/2013/08/14/18939/">St. Patrick</a> is a Holy Day of Obligation; Mexico <a href="http://www.catolicidad.com/2022/12/12-de-diciembre-santa-maria-de.html">recognizes Our Lady of Guadalupe</a> as a Holy Day.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="not-holy-days"><strong>Days That Are Not Holy Days of Obligation</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">There are several important liturgical observances and holidays that might seem like they are Holy Days of Obligation but actually are not.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">That list includes:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/ash-wednesday/">Ash Wednesday</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/holy-thursday/">Holy Thursday</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/good-friday-the-passion-of-christ/">Good Friday</a>&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/thanksgiving-prayer/">Thanksgiving</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Of course, you can still go to church on these days!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/holydaysofobligation">Pray on Ash Wednesday. Or Any day. Get Hallow Now!</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="faq">Commonly Asked Questions about Holy Days of Obligation</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:yoast/faq-block {"questions":[{"id":"faq-question-1673574581486","question":["How many Holy Days of Obligation are there?"],"answer":["This varies by country and even by diocese, but in the U.S. there are six holy days of obligation, three of which are observed regardless of which day of the week they fall on."],"jsonQuestion":"How many Holy Days of Obligation are there?","jsonAnswer":"This varies by country and even by diocese, but in the U.S. there are six holy days of obligation, three of which are observed regardless of which day of the week they fall on."},{"id":"faq-question-1673574594649","question":["What are the Holy Days of Obligation in 2025?"],"answer":["January 1, the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God (Observed on Sunday)",{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},"May 29 (Thursday of the Sixth Week of Easter) the Solemnity of the Ascension",{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},"August 15, the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary",{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},"December 8, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception",{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},"December 25, the Solemnity of the Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ"],"jsonQuestion":"What are the Holy Days of Obligation in 2025?","jsonAnswer":"January 1, the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God (Observed on Sunday)\u003cbr/\u003eMay 29 (Thursday of the Sixth Week of Easter) the Solemnity of the Ascension\u003cbr/\u003eAugust 15, the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary\u003cbr/\u003eDecember 8, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception\u003cbr/\u003eDecember 25, the Solemnity of the Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ"},{"id":"faq-question-1673574653527","question":["Why do we have Holy Days of Obligation?"],"answer":["Holy Days are opportunities for us to recognize important tenets of our faith as one body in Christ. "],"jsonQuestion":"Why do we have Holy Days of Obligation?","jsonAnswer":"Holy Days are opportunities for us to recognize important tenets of our faith as one body in Christ. "},{"id":"faq-question-1673574672886","question":["When did Holy Days of Obligation start?"],"answer":["1917 Code of Canon Law set forth the modern, full list of Holy Days but there's been a long history of observing special days, dating back centuries."],"jsonQuestion":"When did Holy Days of Obligation start?","jsonAnswer":"1917 Code of Canon Law set forth the modern, full list of Holy Days but there's been a long history of observing special days, dating back centuries."},{"id":"faq-question-1673574691148","question":["Is Easter a Holy Day of Obligation?"],"answer":["Since it always occurs on a Sunday, Easter–like all Sundays–are a day in which Catholics are obligated to attend Mass."],"jsonQuestion":"Is Easter a Holy Day of Obligation?","jsonAnswer":"Since it always occurs on a Sunday, Easter–like all Sundays–are a day in which Catholics are obligated to attend Mass."}]} --> <div class="schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block"><div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1673574581486"><strong class="schema-faq-question">How many Holy Days of Obligation are there?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">This varies by country and even by diocese, but in the U.S. there are six holy days of obligation, three of which are observed regardless of which day of the week they fall on.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1673574594649"><strong class="schema-faq-question">What are the Holy Days of Obligation in 2025?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">January 1, the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God (Observed on Sunday)<br/>May 29 (Thursday of the Sixth Week of Easter) the Solemnity of the Ascension<br/>August 15, the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary<br/>December 8, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception<br/>December 25, the Solemnity of the Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1673574653527"><strong class="schema-faq-question">Why do we have Holy Days of Obligation?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">Holy Days are opportunities for us to recognize important tenets of our faith as one body in Christ. </p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1673574672886"><strong class="schema-faq-question">When did Holy Days of Obligation start?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">1917 Code of Canon Law set forth the modern, full list of Holy Days but there's been a long history of observing special days, dating back centuries.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1673574691148"><strong class="schema-faq-question">Is Easter a Holy Day of Obligation?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">Since it always occurs on a Sunday, Easter–like all Sundays–are a day in which Catholics are obligated to attend Mass.</p> </div> </div> <!-- /wp:yoast/faq-block --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">More Catholic Prayer Resources</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/">How to Pray the Rosary</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-litany-of-humility/">Litany of Humility</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-54-day-novena/">54-Day Novena</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-hail-mary/">Hail Mary Prayer&nbsp;</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-surrender-novena/">Surrender Novena</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> [post_title] => Holy Days of Obligation: Catholic Holy Days for 2024-2025 [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => holy-days-of-obligation [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2024-12-18 18:00:53 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-12-18 18:00:53 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=30506 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 30463 [post_author] => 24 [post_date] => 2023-01-10 11:54:31 [post_date_gmt] => 2023-01-10 11:54:31 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">We’re thrilled to announce that you can listen to the Catechism in a Year on Hallow.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In Catechism In a Year, brought to you by <a href="https://ascensionpress.com/pages/catechisminayear-hallow">Ascension Press</a>, Fr. Mike Schmitz leads a daily exploration of the Catechism of the Catholic Church.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Fr. Mike also presents The <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/bible-in-a-year-with-father-mike-schmitz/">Bible in a Year</a>, the popular podcast, available on Hallow, which has been downloaded <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2022/08/29/magazine/father-mike-schmitz-interview.html">more than 350 million times</a>.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Catechism draws on Sacred Scripture, Church Teaching, the Magisterium, and various theologians and saints to give us fundamental truths to learn and share.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The <a href="https://www.usccb.org/committees/subcommittee-catechism/faq-about-catechism#tab--_3-how-can-the-catechism-be-most-effectively-used-by-all-the-faithful">USCCB believes</a> that when it comes to learning and understanding the Catechism, “most benefit greatly from organized discussion groups or study circles.”&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In Catechism in a Year, Fr. Mike will read the entire Catechism over 365 days, coupled with his thoughtful and thought-provoking reflection and commentary that have made Bible in the Year so popular. You can purchase the <a href="https://ascensionpress.com/products/catechism-of-the-catholic-church-ascension-edition">Ascension Catechism</a> or <a href="https://ascensionpress.com/pages/catechisminayear-hallow">download the reading plan</a> to follow along.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Catechism in a Year is available on Hallow now, joining other foundational Catholic prayer resources like the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/">rosary</a>, <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-our-father/">Lord’s prayer</a> and the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-hail-mary/">Hail Mary</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Start praying the Catechism in a Year on Hallow now.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/catechisminayear">Begin Catechism in a Year on Hallow</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="">More Prayer Resources</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-54-day-novena/">54 Day Novena</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-go-to-confession-the-sacrament-of-penance-reconciliation/">Confession Prayer</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/lent-prayers/">Lent Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-night-prayer/">Liturgy of the Hours</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-go-to-confession-the-sacrament-of-penance-reconciliation/">Catholic Confession Guide</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> [post_title] => Catechism in a Year Podcast with Fr. Mike Schmitz Launches on Hallow [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => catechism-in-a-year-fr-mike-schmitz [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2023-02-15 12:37:20 [post_modified_gmt] => 2023-02-15 12:37:20 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=30463 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 1426 [post_author] => 4 [post_date] => 2023-01-10 02:00:00 [post_date_gmt] => 2023-01-10 02:00:00 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>How to Say the Rosary Guide: Click any link below to jump to that section</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"ordered":true,"className":""} --> <ol class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#introduction">Introduction</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#step-by-step-guide">How to Pray the Rosary Step by Step</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#overview">Rosary Prayer Overview</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#rosary-prayers">Prayers Said in the Rosary</a><!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#apostles-creed">Apostles' Creed</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#our-father">Our Father</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#hail-mary">Hail Mary</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#glory-be">Glory Be</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#fatima-prayer">Fatima Prayer</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#hail-holy-queen">Hail, Holy Queen</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#mysteries">The Mysteries of the Rosary</a><!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#mysteries-joyful">Joyful Mysteries</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#mysteries-sorrowful">Sorrowful Mysteries</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#mysteries-luminous">Luminous Mysteries</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#mysteries-glorious">Glorious Mysteries</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#why">Why Do We Pray the Rosary?</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#every-day">Praying the Rosary Every Day</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#pdf">How to Pray the Rosary PDF</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ol> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p id="introduction" class="">The Rosary is a meditative prayer based on Scripture. When we pray the Rosary, we ask Mary to pray for us as we seek to grow closer to her son Jesus by contemplating His life, death, and Resurrection.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":"lent-embed"} --> <p class="lent-embed">In his 2002 apostolic letter <a href="https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/apost_letters/2002/documents/hf_jp-ii_apl_20021016_rosarium-virginis-mariae.html"><em>Rosarium Virginis Mariae</em></a>, Pope John Paul II wrote that with the Rosary, "the Christian people sits at the school of Mary and is led to contemplate the beauty on the face of Christ and to experience the depths of his love."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Rosary remains an important prayer today. In May 2022, Pope Francis <a href="https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2022-05/pope-francis-rosary-peace-ukraine-wars-virgin-mary.html">called on Christians</a> to pray "the Holy Rosary for peace" in response to the war in Ukraine. In November 2022, Archbishop Cordileone of San Francisco <a href="https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/252750/archbishop-cordileone-to-hold-rosary-for-peace-on-election-day">invited</a> the faithful to pray a "Rosary for Peace" on Election Day. <a href="https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2024-05/pope-francis-entrusts-wars-to-the-blessed-mother.html">In May 2024</a>, he again called on people to pray the Rosary in the face of wars in different parts of the world.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Rosary is a prayer that always accompanies me; it is also the prayer of the ordinary people and the saints ... it is a prayer from my heart.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --><cite>Pope Francis</cite></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">How to Pray the Rosary: Step by Step Guide</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow details the process for praying the Rosary step by step with text and illustrations below. Also see our <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agv8noofrvg">animated video guide on YouTube</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:yoast/how-to-block {"hasDuration":true,"days":"0","hours":"0","minutes":"20","jsonDescription":"\u003cstrong\u003eHow to Pray the Rosary\u003c/strong\u003e","steps":[{"id":"how-to-step-1639338877969","name":[{"type":"strong","props":{"children":["Begin with the Sign of the Cross"]}},". "],"text":[{"type":"em","props":{"children":["In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."]}}," ",{"type":"img","key":null,"ref":null,"props":{"className":"wp-image-39577","alt":"A man making the Sign of the Cross","src":"https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-1-Begin-with-Sign-of-the-Cross.png","style":"max-width:100%;"},"_owner":null}],"jsonName":"\u003cstrong\u003eBegin with the Sign of the Cross\u003c/strong\u003e. ","jsonText":"\u003cem\u003eIn the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cimg class=\u0022wp-image-39577\u0022 alt=\u0022A man making the Sign of the Cross\u0022 src=\u0022https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-1-Begin-with-Sign-of-the-Cross.png\u0022 style=\u0022max-width:100%;\u0022/\u003e","jsonImageSrc":"https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-1-Begin-with-Sign-of-the-Cross.png"},{"id":"how-to-step-1639338965270","name":[{"type":"strong","props":{"children":["Holding the crucifix, pray the Apostles’ Creed"]}},". "],"text":[{"type":"em","props":{"children":["I believe in God, the Father almighty, Creator of heaven and earth, and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried; He descended into hell; on the third day He rose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of God the Father almighty; from there He will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen."]}}," ",{"type":"img","key":null,"ref":null,"props":{"className":"wp-image-39583","alt":"Rosary beads with a spotlight on the crufifix","src":"https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-2-Holding-the-Crucifix-pray-the-Apostles-Creed.png","style":"max-width:100%;"},"_owner":null}],"jsonName":"\u003cstrong\u003eHolding the crucifix, pray the Apostles’ Creed\u003c/strong\u003e. ","jsonText":"\u003cem\u003eI believe in God, the Father almighty, Creator of heaven and earth, and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried; He descended into hell; on the third day He rose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of God the Father almighty; from there He will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cimg class=\u0022wp-image-39583\u0022 alt=\u0022Rosary beads with a spotlight on the crufifix\u0022 src=\u0022https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-2-Holding-the-Crucifix-pray-the-Apostles-Creed.png\u0022 style=\u0022max-width:100%;\u0022/\u003e","jsonImageSrc":"https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-2-Holding-the-Crucifix-pray-the-Apostles-Creed.png"},{"id":"how-to-step-1639339283363","name":[{"type":"strong","props":{"children":["On the first bead, pray an Our Father"]}},". "],"text":[{"type":"em","props":{"children":["Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen."]}}," ",{"type":"img","key":null,"ref":null,"props":{"className":"wp-image-39588","alt":"Rosary beads with a spotlight on the first bead","src":"https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-3-On-the-first-bead-pray-an-Our-Father.png","style":"max-width:100%;"},"_owner":null}],"jsonName":"\u003cstrong\u003eOn the first bead, pray an Our Father\u003c/strong\u003e. ","jsonText":"\u003cem\u003eOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cimg class=\u0022wp-image-39588\u0022 alt=\u0022Rosary beads with a spotlight on the first bead\u0022 src=\u0022https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-3-On-the-first-bead-pray-an-Our-Father.png\u0022 style=\u0022max-width:100%;\u0022/\u003e","jsonImageSrc":"https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-3-On-the-first-bead-pray-an-Our-Father.png"},{"id":"how-to-step-1639339330538","name":[{"type":"strong","props":{"children":["On each of the next three beads, pray a Hail Mary"]}},". "],"text":[{"type":"em","props":{"children":["Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death. Amen."]}}," ",{"type":"img","key":null,"ref":null,"props":{"className":"wp-image-39593","alt":"Rosary beads with a highlight on the next three beads","src":"https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-4-On-each-of-the-next-three-beads-pray-a-Hail-Mary.png","style":"max-width:100%;"},"_owner":null}],"jsonName":"\u003cstrong\u003eOn each of the next three beads, pray a Hail Mary\u003c/strong\u003e. ","jsonText":"\u003cem\u003eHail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death. Amen.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cimg class=\u0022wp-image-39593\u0022 alt=\u0022Rosary beads with a highlight on the next three beads\u0022 src=\u0022https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-4-On-each-of-the-next-three-beads-pray-a-Hail-Mary.png\u0022 style=\u0022max-width:100%;\u0022/\u003e","jsonImageSrc":"https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-4-On-each-of-the-next-three-beads-pray-a-Hail-Mary.png"},{"id":"how-to-step-1644249079228","name":["On the next bead, pray a Glory Be."],"text":[{"type":"em","props":{"children":[{"type":"em","props":{"children":["Glory be to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen."]}}]}},{"type":"img","key":null,"ref":null,"props":{"className":"wp-image-39598","alt":"Rosary beads with a highlight on the second large bead","src":"https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-5-On-the-next-bead-pray-a-Glory-Be.png","style":"max-width:100%;"},"_owner":null}],"jsonName":"On the next bead, pray a Glory Be.","jsonText":"\u003cem\u003e\u003cem\u003eGlory be to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/em\u003e\u003cimg class=\u0022wp-image-39598\u0022 alt=\u0022Rosary beads with a highlight on the second large bead\u0022 src=\u0022https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-5-On-the-next-bead-pray-a-Glory-Be.png\u0022 style=\u0022max-width:100%;\u0022/\u003e","jsonImageSrc":"https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-5-On-the-next-bead-pray-a-Glory-Be.png"},{"id":"how-to-step-1639339350813","name":[{"type":"strong","props":{"children":["Pray "]}},"the first decade. "],"text":["On the large bead, a",{"type":"span","props":{"style":"font-size: revert; color: initial;","children":["nnounce the mystery"]}}," and",{"type":"span","props":{"style":"font-size: revert; color: initial;","children":[" then say an Our Father"]}},".",{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"span","props":{"style":"font-size: revert; color: initial;","children":["On e"]}},"ach of ",{"type":"span","props":{"style":"font-size: revert; color: initial;","children":["the 10 small beads, say "]}},"a",{"type":"span","props":{"style":"font-size: revert; color: initial;","children":[" Hail Mary while c"]}},"ontinuing to ",{"type":"span","props":{"style":"font-size: revert; color: initial;","children":["meditat"]}},"e",{"type":"span","props":{"style":"font-size: revert; color: initial;","children":[" on the mystery."]}},{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"span","props":{"style":"font-size: revert; color: initial;","children":["A"]}},"t the end of the decade,",{"type":"span","props":{"style":"font-size: revert; color: initial;","children":[" "]}},"s",{"type":"span","props":{"style":"font-size: revert; color: initial;","children":["ay the Glory Be."]}},{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"span","props":{"style":"font-size: revert; color: initial;","children":["Then say the ",{"type":"a","props":{"href":"https://hallow.com/blog/our-lady-of-fatima/","children":["Fatima Prayer"]}}]}},":",{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"em","props":{"style":"font-size: revert; color: initial;","children":["O my Jesus, forgive us our sins, save us from the fires of hell; lead all souls to Heaven, especially those who have most need of your mercy."]}},{"type":"span","props":{"style":"font-size: revert; color: initial;","children":[" "]}},{"type":"em","props":{"style":"font-size: revert; color: initial;","children":["Amen"]}},{"type":"img","key":null,"ref":null,"props":{"className":"wp-image-39603","alt":"Illustration of rosary beads with a spotlight on the first \u0022decade\u0022 (10 beads)","src":"https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-6-Pray-the-first-decade.png","style":"max-width:100%;"},"_owner":null}],"jsonName":"\u003cstrong\u003ePray \u003c/strong\u003ethe first decade. ","jsonText":"On the large bead, a\u003cspan style=\u0022font-size: revert; color: initial;\u0022\u003ennounce the mystery\u003c/span\u003e and\u003cspan style=\u0022font-size: revert; color: initial;\u0022\u003e then say an Our Father\u003c/span\u003e.\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cspan style=\u0022font-size: revert; color: initial;\u0022\u003eOn e\u003c/span\u003each of \u003cspan style=\u0022font-size: revert; color: initial;\u0022\u003ethe 10 small beads, say \u003c/span\u003ea\u003cspan style=\u0022font-size: revert; color: initial;\u0022\u003e Hail Mary while c\u003c/span\u003eontinuing to \u003cspan style=\u0022font-size: revert; color: initial;\u0022\u003emeditat\u003c/span\u003ee\u003cspan style=\u0022font-size: revert; color: initial;\u0022\u003e on the mystery.\u003c/span\u003e\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cspan style=\u0022font-size: revert; color: initial;\u0022\u003eA\u003c/span\u003et the end of the decade,\u003cspan style=\u0022font-size: revert; color: initial;\u0022\u003e \u003c/span\u003es\u003cspan style=\u0022font-size: revert; color: initial;\u0022\u003eay the Glory Be.\u003c/span\u003e\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cspan style=\u0022font-size: revert; color: initial;\u0022\u003eThen say the \u003ca href=\u0022https://hallow.com/blog/our-lady-of-fatima/\u0022\u003eFatima Prayer\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/span\u003e:\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cem style=\u0022font-size: revert; color: initial;\u0022\u003eO my Jesus, forgive us our sins, save us from the fires of hell; lead all souls to Heaven, especially those who have most need of your mercy.\u003c/em\u003e\u003cspan style=\u0022font-size: revert; color: initial;\u0022\u003e \u003c/span\u003e\u003cem style=\u0022font-size: revert; color: initial;\u0022\u003eAmen\u003c/em\u003e\u003cimg class=\u0022wp-image-39603\u0022 alt=\u0022Illustration of rosary beads with a spotlight on the first \u0026quot;decade\u0026quot; (10 beads)\u0022 src=\u0022https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-6-Pray-the-first-decade.png\u0022 style=\u0022max-width:100%;\u0022/\u003e","jsonImageSrc":"https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-6-Pray-the-first-decade.png"},{"id":"how-to-step-1639340152031","name":["Repeat this pattern for the remaining decades."],"text":[" ",{"type":"em","props":{"children":["Our Father -\u003e 10 Hail Marys -\u003e Glory Be -\u003e O my Jesus"]}}," (Fatima Prayer)",{"type":"img","key":null,"ref":null,"props":{"className":"wp-image-39608","alt":"Illustration of rosary beads with the different decades highlighted","src":"https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-7-Repeat-this-pattern-or-the-remaining-decades.png","style":"max-width:100%;"},"_owner":null}],"jsonName":"Repeat this pattern for the remaining decades.","jsonText":" \u003cem\u003eOur Father -\u003e 10 Hail Marys -\u003e Glory Be -\u003e O my Jesus\u003c/em\u003e (Fatima Prayer)\u003cimg class=\u0022wp-image-39608\u0022 alt=\u0022Illustration of rosary beads with the different decades highlighted\u0022 src=\u0022https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-7-Repeat-this-pattern-or-the-remaining-decades.png\u0022 style=\u0022max-width:100%;\u0022/\u003e","jsonImageSrc":"https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-7-Repeat-this-pattern-or-the-remaining-decades.png"},{"id":"how-to-step-1639340190567","name":[{"type":"strong","props":{"children":["After the 5 decades, conclude with the "]}},{"type":"a","props":{"href":"https://hallow.com/blog/hail-holy-queen-prayer-salve-regina/","children":[{"type":"strong","props":{"children":["Hail Holy Queen"]}}," prayer"]}},". "],"text":[{"type":"em","props":{"children":["Hail, holy Queen, mother of mercy, our life, our sweetness, and our hope. To you we cry, poor banished children of Eve; to you we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears. "]}},{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"em","props":{"children":["Turn, then, most gracious advocate, your eyes of mercy toward us; and after this, our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of your womb, Jesus. O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary."]}},{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"em","props":{"children":["Pray for us, O holy Mother of God."]}},{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"em","props":{"children":["That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ"]}},{"type":"img","key":null,"ref":null,"props":{"className":"wp-image-39613","alt":"Hail Holy Queen Prayer","src":"https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-8-After-the-5-decades-conclude-with-the-Hail-Holy-Queen.png","style":"max-width:100%;"},"_owner":null}],"jsonName":"\u003cstrong\u003eAfter the 5 decades, conclude with the \u003c/strong\u003e\u003ca href=\u0022https://hallow.com/blog/hail-holy-queen-prayer-salve-regina/\u0022\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHail Holy Queen\u003c/strong\u003e prayer\u003c/a\u003e. ","jsonText":"\u003cem\u003eHail, holy Queen, mother of mercy, our life, our sweetness, and our hope. To you we cry, poor banished children of Eve; to you we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears. \u003c/em\u003e\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cem\u003eTurn, then, most gracious advocate, your eyes of mercy toward us; and after this, our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of your womb, Jesus. O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary.\u003c/em\u003e\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cem\u003ePray for us, O holy Mother of God.\u003c/em\u003e\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cem\u003eThat we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ\u003c/em\u003e\u003cimg class=\u0022wp-image-39613\u0022 alt=\u0022Hail Holy Queen Prayer\u0022 src=\u0022https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-8-After-the-5-decades-conclude-with-the-Hail-Holy-Queen.png\u0022 style=\u0022max-width:100%;\u0022/\u003e","jsonImageSrc":"https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-8-After-the-5-decades-conclude-with-the-Hail-Holy-Queen.png"},{"id":"how-to-step-1639340310857","name":["Close with the concluding prayer."],"text":[{"type":"em","props":{"children":["Let us pray:"]}},{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"em","props":{"children":["O God, whose Only Begotten Son, by His Life, Death, and Resurrection, has purchased for us the rewards of eternal life, grant, we beseech thee, that while meditating on these mysteries of the most holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we may imitate what they contain and obtain what they promise, through the same Christ our Lord. Amen."]}}," ",{"type":"img","key":null,"ref":null,"props":{"className":"wp-image-39618","alt":"Rosary Concluding Prayer","src":"https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-9-Close-with-the-concluding-prayer.png","style":"max-width:100%;"},"_owner":null}],"jsonName":"Close with the concluding prayer.","jsonText":"\u003cem\u003eLet us pray:\u003c/em\u003e\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cem\u003eO God, whose Only Begotten Son, by His Life, Death, and Resurrection, has purchased for us the rewards of eternal life, grant, we beseech thee, that while meditating on these mysteries of the most holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we may imitate what they contain and obtain what they promise, through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cimg class=\u0022wp-image-39618\u0022 alt=\u0022Rosary Concluding Prayer\u0022 src=\u0022https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-9-Close-with-the-concluding-prayer.png\u0022 style=\u0022max-width:100%;\u0022/\u003e","jsonImageSrc":"https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-9-Close-with-the-concluding-prayer.png"},{"id":"how-to-step-1644249210590","name":[{"type":"meta","props":{"charset":"utf-8","children":[]}},"End with the Sign of the Cross."],"text":[{"type":"em","props":{"children":["In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."]}}," ",{"type":"img","key":null,"ref":null,"props":{"className":"wp-image-39623","alt":"Woman kneeling in prayer","src":"https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-10-End-with-the-Sign-of-the-Cross.png","style":"max-width:100%;"},"_owner":null}],"jsonName":"\u003cmeta charset=\u0022utf-8\u0022/\u003eEnd with the Sign of the Cross.","jsonText":"\u003cem\u003eIn the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cimg class=\u0022wp-image-39623\u0022 alt=\u0022Woman kneeling in prayer\u0022 src=\u0022https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-10-End-with-the-Sign-of-the-Cross.png\u0022 style=\u0022max-width:100%;\u0022/\u003e","jsonImageSrc":"https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-10-End-with-the-Sign-of-the-Cross.png"}],"defaultDurationText":"Time needed:"} --> <div class="schema-how-to wp-block-yoast-how-to-block"><p class="schema-how-to-total-time"><span class="schema-how-to-duration-time-text">Time needed: </span>20 minutes. </p><p class="schema-how-to-description"><strong>How to Pray the Rosary</strong></p> <ol class="schema-how-to-steps"><li class="schema-how-to-step" id="how-to-step-1639338877969"><strong class="schema-how-to-step-name"><strong>Begin with the Sign of the Cross</strong>. </strong> <p class="schema-how-to-step-text"><em>In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.</em> <img class="wp-image-39577" alt="A man making the Sign of the Cross" src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-1-Begin-with-Sign-of-the-Cross.png" style="max-width:100%;"/></p> </li><li class="schema-how-to-step" id="how-to-step-1639338965270"><strong class="schema-how-to-step-name"><strong>Holding the crucifix, pray the Apostles’ Creed</strong>. </strong> <p class="schema-how-to-step-text"><em>I believe in God, the Father almighty, Creator of heaven and earth, and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried; He descended into hell; on the third day He rose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of God the Father almighty; from there He will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen.</em> <img class="wp-image-39583" alt="Rosary beads with a spotlight on the crufifix" src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-2-Holding-the-Crucifix-pray-the-Apostles-Creed.png" style="max-width:100%;"/></p> </li><li class="schema-how-to-step" id="how-to-step-1639339283363"><strong class="schema-how-to-step-name"><strong>On the first bead, pray an Our Father</strong>. </strong> <p class="schema-how-to-step-text"><em>Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.</em> <img class="wp-image-39588" alt="Rosary beads with a spotlight on the first bead" src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-3-On-the-first-bead-pray-an-Our-Father.png" style="max-width:100%;"/></p> </li><li class="schema-how-to-step" id="how-to-step-1639339330538"><strong class="schema-how-to-step-name"><strong>On each of the next three beads, pray a Hail Mary</strong>. </strong> <p class="schema-how-to-step-text"><em>Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death. Amen.</em> <img class="wp-image-39593" alt="Rosary beads with a highlight on the next three beads" src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-4-On-each-of-the-next-three-beads-pray-a-Hail-Mary.png" style="max-width:100%;"/></p> </li><li class="schema-how-to-step" id="how-to-step-1644249079228"><strong class="schema-how-to-step-name">On the next bead, pray a Glory Be.</strong> <p class="schema-how-to-step-text"><em><em>Glory be to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.</em></em><img class="wp-image-39598" alt="Rosary beads with a highlight on the second large bead" src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-5-On-the-next-bead-pray-a-Glory-Be.png" style="max-width:100%;"/></p> </li><li class="schema-how-to-step" id="how-to-step-1639339350813"><strong class="schema-how-to-step-name"><strong>Pray </strong>the first decade. </strong> <p class="schema-how-to-step-text">On the large bead, a<span style="font-size: revert; color: initial;">nnounce the mystery</span> and<span style="font-size: revert; color: initial;"> then say an Our Father</span>.<br/><br/><span style="font-size: revert; color: initial;">On e</span>ach of <span style="font-size: revert; color: initial;">the 10 small beads, say </span>a<span style="font-size: revert; color: initial;"> Hail Mary while c</span>ontinuing to <span style="font-size: revert; color: initial;">meditat</span>e<span style="font-size: revert; color: initial;"> on the mystery.</span><br/><br/><span style="font-size: revert; color: initial;">A</span>t the end of the decade,<span style="font-size: revert; color: initial;"> </span>s<span style="font-size: revert; color: initial;">ay the Glory Be.</span><br/><br/><span style="font-size: revert; color: initial;">Then say the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/our-lady-of-fatima/">Fatima Prayer</a></span>:<br/><em style="font-size: revert; color: initial;">O my Jesus, forgive us our sins, save us from the fires of hell; lead all souls to Heaven, especially those who have most need of your mercy.</em><span style="font-size: revert; color: initial;"> </span><em style="font-size: revert; color: initial;">Amen</em><img class="wp-image-39603" alt="Illustration of rosary beads with a spotlight on the first &quot;decade&quot; (10 beads)" src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-6-Pray-the-first-decade.png" style="max-width:100%;"/></p> </li><li class="schema-how-to-step" id="how-to-step-1639340152031"><strong class="schema-how-to-step-name">Repeat this pattern for the remaining decades.</strong> <p class="schema-how-to-step-text"> <em>Our Father -> 10 Hail Marys -> Glory Be -> O my Jesus</em> (Fatima Prayer)<img class="wp-image-39608" alt="Illustration of rosary beads with the different decades highlighted" src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-7-Repeat-this-pattern-or-the-remaining-decades.png" style="max-width:100%;"/></p> </li><li class="schema-how-to-step" id="how-to-step-1639340190567"><strong class="schema-how-to-step-name"><strong>After the 5 decades, conclude with the </strong><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/hail-holy-queen-prayer-salve-regina/"><strong>Hail Holy Queen</strong> prayer</a>. </strong> <p class="schema-how-to-step-text"><em>Hail, holy Queen, mother of mercy, our life, our sweetness, and our hope. To you we cry, poor banished children of Eve; to you we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears. </em><br/><br/><em>Turn, then, most gracious advocate, your eyes of mercy toward us; and after this, our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of your womb, Jesus. O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary.</em><br/><br/><em>Pray for us, O holy Mother of God.</em><br/><em>That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ</em><img class="wp-image-39613" alt="Hail Holy Queen Prayer" src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-8-After-the-5-decades-conclude-with-the-Hail-Holy-Queen.png" style="max-width:100%;"/></p> </li><li class="schema-how-to-step" id="how-to-step-1639340310857"><strong class="schema-how-to-step-name">Close with the concluding prayer.</strong> <p class="schema-how-to-step-text"><em>Let us pray:</em><br/><br/><em>O God, whose Only Begotten Son, by His Life, Death, and Resurrection, has purchased for us the rewards of eternal life, grant, we beseech thee, that while meditating on these mysteries of the most holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we may imitate what they contain and obtain what they promise, through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.</em> <img class="wp-image-39618" alt="Rosary Concluding Prayer" src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-9-Close-with-the-concluding-prayer.png" style="max-width:100%;"/></p> </li><li class="schema-how-to-step" id="how-to-step-1644249210590"><strong class="schema-how-to-step-name"><meta charset="utf-8"/>End with the Sign of the Cross.</strong> <p class="schema-how-to-step-text"><em>In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.</em> <img class="wp-image-39623" alt="Woman kneeling in prayer" src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Step-10-End-with-the-Sign-of-the-Cross.png" style="max-width:100%;"/></p> </li></ol></div> <!-- /wp:yoast/how-to-block --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="overview">What is the Rosary?</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Origin</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In the early 13th century, <a href="https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-dominic" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">St. Dominic</a> preached the Gospel to combat various heresies, and he founded the Order of the Dominicans to carry out this work of spreading the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-gospels/">Good News</a>. Despite their efforts, the heresy continued to reappear, however, so he called on the Blessed Virgin Mary to guide him. Tradition holds that Mary appeared to him in 1221 and gave him the devotion of the Rosary, encouraging him to share the prayer with others. Many also believe that the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.preces-latinae.org/thesaurus/BVM/Rosarium.html">historical origin</a>&nbsp;of the Rosary lies in the monastic practice of reciting 150 Psalms each week, a practice which additionally expanded into the repetition of Hail Mary's.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In 2023, the Rosary remains as powerful as ever. It continues to be a beautiful means for <a href="https://denvercatholic.org/deathbed-conversions-reveal-rosarys-power-and-give-hope-for-fallen-away-catholics/">conversion</a> and helped <a href="https://www.vaticannews.va/en/africa/news/2023-01/rosary-prayers-across-africa-for-pope-benedict-xvi.html">unite the global population of Catholics</a> in prayer in the wake of the death of <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/pope-benedicts-passing/">Pope Benedict XVI</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center","orientation":"horizontal"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/pR5L0OKInpb">Pray the Rosary with the Hallow app</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="rosary-prayers">Rosary Prayers</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Rosary devotion is comprised of several prayers, which are all rooted in Scripture. Under "How to Pray: The Rosary" below, you can read about the traditional order of these prayers in the Rosary. People often pray with rosary beads to guide their time in prayer, though they are not necessary for praying the devotion. If you don't have a rosary, consider praying with the Bishop Sheen X Hallow Rosary.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="apostles-creed">Apostle's Creed</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"<em>I believe in God, the Father almighty</em> ..."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">We begin the Rosary with the Apostle's Creed. It is a fitting way to begin this prayer, affirming our core beliefs as Catholics. Each <a href="https://www.acatholic.org/catholic-the-apostles-creed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">line</a> comes from different books of Scripture, including the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-gospels/">Gospels</a>, 1 Peter, 1 Corinthians, Acts, and more.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="our-father">Our Father</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>"Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name ..."</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Also known as the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-our-father/">Lord's Prayer</a>, this prayer comes directly from Jesus in <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+6&amp;version=NRSVCE" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Matthew 6</a>, when he teaches his disciples how to pray.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="hail-mary">Hail Mary</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>"Hail Mary, full of grace ..." </em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Although the repeated <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-hail-mary/">Hail Mary prayer</a> is addressed directly to Mary, it is to Jesus that the act of love is ultimately directed, with her and through her.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --><cite>St. John Paul II</cite></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Hail Mary prayer is the heart of the Rosary. We pray 10 Hail Mary's within each of the five decades - totaling 50 Hail Mary prayers at the end of your devotion. This prayer, in which we ask Mary for her intercession, is also <a href="https://media.ascensionpress.com/podcast/the-biblical-roots-of-the-hail-mary/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rooted</a> in Scripture. The first two lines come from the first chapter of Luke, when the Angel Gabriel announces Christ's coming at the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/feast-of-the-annunciation/">Annunciation</a> and when Mary's cousin, Elizabeth, greets Mary at the Visitation. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="glory-be">Glory Be</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>"Glory Be to the Father ..." </em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Glory Be is often referred to as the <a href="https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/doxology" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">doxology</a>, a word that comes from Greek, meaning "an expression of praise or glory." This prayer is quite <a href="https://www.catholic.com/tract/glory-be-doxology" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">common</a> and straightforward — we pray for the Holy Trinity to be glorified at all times.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="fatima-prayer"><strong>Fatima Prayer</strong></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"<meta charset="utf-8"><em>O my Jesus, forgive us our sins</em> ..."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Fatima Prayer was given directly by Mary to three shepherd children on July 13, 1917 during her appearances in Fatima, Portugal. In this prayer, which is said at the end of each decade, we ask Jesus for mercy upon us and upon all souls.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="hail-holy-queen"><strong>Hail, Holy Queen</strong></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"<em>Hail, Holy Queen, Mother of Mercy</em> ..."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Rosary ends with this powerful prayer, which comes from the ancient tradition of monks concluding their communal prayer with the Salve Regina (a Latin chant of the Hail, Holy Queen). Reminded that Jesus is given to us through his Mother Mary, we give thanks to God for Mary's participation in all of the saving events of Jesus' life, death, and Resurrection.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="mysteries">Mysteries of the Rosary</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Each of the five decades of the Rosary highlights a unique moment within the Paschal Mystery. There are four sets of mysteries -- Joyful, Sorrowful, Luminous, and Glorious -- and each contains five pivotal events from the life of Jesus. When praying the Rosary, we enter into one set of these mysteries at a time, meditating on them through the eyes of Mary, the disciple who was closest to Jesus and knew him best. The Church traditionally prays certain mysteries on specific days of the week, as follows:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Monday: Joyful Mystery</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Tuesday: Sorrowful Mystery</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Wednesday: Glorious Mystery</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Thursday: Luminous Mystery</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Friday: Sorrowful Mystery</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Saturday: Joyful Mystery</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Sunday: Glorious Mystery</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="mysteries-joyful">Joyful Mysteries (Monday, Saturday)</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Joyful Mysteries invite us to contemplate the Incarnation, and we enter into the wonder of Jesus coming to earth as a baby. We see the incredible story unfold through Mary's eyes - the angel appear <em>(The Annunciation)</em>, her cousin Elizabeth’s greeting <em>(The Visitation)</em>, the birth of her son <em>(The Nativity)</em>, and the significant events that point to who this child is and what he will do <em>(The Presentation and Finding in the Temple)</em>. We are invited to do as Mary did and “reflect on them in [our] heart[s]” (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=luke+2%3A19&amp;version=NABRE" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Luke 2:19</a>). </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="mysteries-sorrowful">Sorrowful Mysteries (Tuesday, Friday)</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Sorrowful Mysteries help us relive the passion and death of Jesus. We not only remember it, but we also enter in - we keep watch with Jesus in his distress before his arrest <em>(The Agony in the Garden)</em>. We enter into his suffering with <em>The Scourging at the Pillar, The Crowning of Thorns, </em>and <em>The Carrying of the Cross</em> ... and then we stand at the foot of that cross beside Mary as we witness his <em>Crucifixion and Death</em>. We attempt to understand the depths of God's love for us as we reflect on the cost of our salvation and redemption. We feel this sorrow and contrition even more deeply as we imagine it through the eyes of his mother. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="mysteries-luminous">Luminous Mysteries (Thursday)</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Through the Luminous Mysteries, we meditate on the events of Jesus' public ministry: his revelation as the Beloved Son of the Father at the <em>Baptism in the Jordan</em>, his first public miracle at the <em>Wedding at Cana</em>, his <em>Proclamation of the Kingdom of God, Jesus’ Transfiguration</em>, and the <em>Institution of the Eucharist</em> at the Last Supper. Pope St. John Paul II wrote, "In the Luminous mysteries, apart from the miracle at Cana, the presence of Mary remains in the background ... Yet the role she assumed at Cana accompanies Christ throughout his ministry. The revelation made directly by the Father at the Baptism in the Jordan, also echoed by John the Baptist, is placed upon Mary's lips at Cana, and it becomes the great maternal counsel that Mary addresses to the Church of every age: 'Do whatever he tells you.'" </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="mysteries-glorious">Glorious Mysteries (Wednesday, Sunday)</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In the Glorious Mysteries, we meditate on the awe-inspiring miracles that take place after Jesus’ death. These events show how Jesus is who he says he is – the Son of God. We experience the joy of the risen Christ and imagine ourselves as Mary or the first disciples<em> (The Resurrection)</em>. As we pray, we see Jesus' <em>Ascension</em> into heaven and the <em>Descent of the <a href="https://hallow.com/2022/09/14/prayer-to-the-holy-spirit-and-other-holy-spirit-prayers/">Holy Spirit</a></em> at <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/pentecost/">Pentecost</a>. The last two mysteries, though not explicitly mentioned in Scripture, come from hundreds of years of tradition based on passages from Revelation and the Song of Songs. We celebrate the grace and the role Jesus has bestowed upon his mother <meta charset="utf-8"></meta><em>(The Assumption and Coronation of Mary)</em>, and we pray that where Mary goes, we will one day as well.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="why">Why do we pray the Rosary?</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Think of the Rosary as being like the ocean: There’s something in it for everyone, whether you consider yourself a veteran mystic longing to go deeper in prayer with our Lord, a novice struggling to learn how to pray, or someone seeking the Lord’s help, right now, with something going on in your life. The deep-sea explorer and the child making sand castles on the beach can fully enjoy the same ocean while playing at different levels. And this is true with the Rosary.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --><cite>Edward Sri, "Why Pray the Rosary?"</cite></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Just as Dr. Sri <a href="https://www.franciscanmedia.org/franciscan-spirit-blog/why-pray-the-rosary" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">explains</a>, the Rosary is a prayer for people of all ages, undergoing different life experiences, and who might have different levels of familiarity with the devotion. The reason behind the Rosary is fairly simple — Mary was present for the joyful, sorrowful, luminous, and glorious moments of Christ's life. So, by meditating on Jesus' life with Mary's help, <meta charset="utf-8">we seek to grow closer and closer to Christ. We might pray with Mary for a special intention, or we might need a moment of solace with the Blessed Mother and her Son. Any reason to pray the Rosary is a beautiful reason. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="every-day">Praying the Rosary Every Day</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:columns {"verticalAlignment":"center"} --> <div class="wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center"><!-- wp:column {"verticalAlignment":"center","width":"33.33%"} --> <div class="wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center" style="flex-basis:33.33%"><!-- wp:image {"id":8227,"sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none","className":""} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Copy-of-6-16-2021_story-1-1-576x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-8227"/></figure> <!-- /wp:image --></div> <!-- /wp:column --> <!-- wp:column {"verticalAlignment":"center","width":"66.66%"} --> <div class="wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center" style="flex-basis:66.66%"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">We can pray the Rosary at any time of the day or night. While some people prefer to pray with beads, they aren't necessary for our time spent with Jesus and Mary. Praying the full Rosary step by step usually takes about 15 - 25 minutes, but remember, you can always simply pray one decade (an Our Father, 10 Hail Mary's, a Glory Be) if that's all the time you have.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">If you're looking to add the Rosary to your everyday <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prayer routine</a> intentionally, consider the following times for prayer:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>If you take daily walks, consider adding the Rosary to your routine. You can say the prayers with Hallow, or carry your rosary beads as you walk. </li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Pray the Rosary on your commute; listen and pray along as you start or end your day at work.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Pray as you prepare dinner.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Set aside quiet time and pray as you get ready for the day or prepare to <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/falling-asleep-with-god/">fall asleep</a>.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --></div> <!-- /wp:column --></div> <!-- /wp:columns --> <!-- wp:image {"id":8310,"sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none","className":""} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Copy-of-Copy-of-Add-a-heading-1024x459.png" alt="Rosaries on Hallow App" class="wp-image-8310"/></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:separator {"opacity":"css","className":"is-style-wide"} --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-css-opacity is-style-wide"/> <!-- /wp:separator --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">You can pray the traditional daily Rosaries, the Scriptural Rosary, and the Chant Rosary on Hallow. You can also pray the Rosary with Dr. Scott Hahn or Bishop Robert Barron. Bishop Barron's introduction and tutorial to this devotion are also included on the app.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center","orientation":"horizontal"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/pR5L0OKInpb">Pray the Rosary on Hallow</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">We look forward to praying the Rosary with you step by step on Hallow. If you're looking for a PDF guide for praying the Rosary, save or download the illustrated guide below:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":8666,"sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none","align":"center","className":""} --> <figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large" id="pdf"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/How-to-Pray-the-Rosary-Infographic-492x1024.png" alt="How to Pray: the Rosary - Hallow App" class="wp-image-8666"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">How to Pray the Rosary - Hallow App</figcaption></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Related Prayers</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-lectio-divina/">Lectio Divina</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/7-sorrows/">How to Pray the Seven Sorrows Rosary</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/lent-prayers/">Lent Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-our-father/">How to Pray the Lord's Prayer</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-mary-undoer-of-knots-novena/">How to Pray the Mary, Undoer of Knots Novena</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-divine-mercy-chaplet/">How to Pray the Divine Mercy Novena</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/feast-of-our-lady-of-guadalupe-prayers-celebrations/">Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/mothers-day-prayers/">Mother's Day Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>*<em>Article Last Updated: September 18, 2024</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> [post_title] => How to Pray the Rosary: Guide to the Rosary Prayer [post_excerpt] => Meditate on the life of Jesus with vocal prayer. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => how-to-pray-the-rosary [to_ping] => [pinged] => https://hallow.com/2021/06/30/how-to-pray-the-gospels/ https://hallow.com/2021/07/02/how-to-pray/ https://hallow.com/2020/02/12/how-to-pray-our-father/ https://hallow.com/2019/08/06/falling-asleep-with-god/ https://hallow.com/2021/02/10/7-sorrows/ https://hallow.com/2021/08/03/how-to-pray-mary-undoer-of-knots-novena/ https://hallow.com/2020/03/08/how-to-pray-divine-mercy-chaplet/ https://hallow.com/2021/09/19/how-to-pray-st-therese-novena/ https://hallow.com/2022/01/19/how-to-pray-the-hail-mary/ [post_modified] => 2024-09-18 19:32:20 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-09-18 19:32:20 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=1426 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 30197 [post_author] => 40 [post_date] => 2022-12-31 14:36:49 [post_date_gmt] => 2022-12-31 14:36:49 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">It is with a heavy heart that I share, for those of you that have not yet heard, that Pope Benedict XVI passed away early this morning.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><br><strong>Please join us in prayer as a community in remembrance of him and for the repose of his soul. </strong>Each day for the next 9 days throughout the Novendiale, the 9 days following the Pope's death, we’ll pray alongside an excerpt from Pope Benedict XVI’s writings &amp; preaching. We’re blessed to be guided by Msgr. John Cihak, who served as a Papal Master of Ceremonies for Pope Benedict XVI.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link" href="https://hallow.app.link/aDNdiXT1cwb">Join In Prayer on Hallow</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">A powerful excerpt from Pope Benedict XVI's first homily as Pope after Pope John Paul II's passing:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p><em>“How alone we all felt after the passing of John Paul II – the Pope who for over twenty-six years had been our shepherd and guide on our journey through life. He crossed the threshold of the next life, entering into the mystery of God. But he did not take this step alone. </em><strong><em>Those who believe are never alone – neither in life nor in death.</em></strong><em> At that moment, we could call upon the Saints from every age – his friends, his brothers, and sisters in the faith – knowing that they would form a living procession to accompany him into the next world, into the glory of God…</em></p><p><em>I too can say with renewed conviction: I am not alone. All the Saints of God are there to protect me, to sustain me, and to carry me. And your prayers, my dear friends, your indulgence, your love, your faith, and your hope accompany me.”</em></p><cite>Pope Benedict XVI</cite></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> [post_title] => Pope Benedict XVI's Passing: Join Us in Prayer & Remembrance [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => pope-benedicts-passing [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2022-12-31 14:36:51 [post_modified_gmt] => 2022-12-31 14:36:51 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=30197 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 30138 [post_author] => 32 [post_date] => 2022-12-23 19:23:42 [post_date_gmt] => 2022-12-23 19:23:42 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Table of Contents</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Introduction</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#morning">Christmas Eve Morning Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#short">Short Christmas Eve Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#bible-verses">Bible Verses for Christmas Eve</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#dinner-prayers">Christmas Eve Dinner Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#fall-asleep">Prayers to Fall Asleep on Christmas Eve</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#more-resources">More Christmas Resources</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">At Hallow, we’re passionate about helping you find peace and draw closer to God every day.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">On Christmas Eve, that can feel a little bit more difficult than on many of the other 365 days of the year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Let Hallow help guide your Christmas Eve with these prayers, which you can use when you wake up, during your busy day or to help fall asleep at night.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="morning">Christmas Eve Morning Prayer</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The waiting and anticipation for Christmas is spans all of Advent but is especially pronounced on the morning of Christmas Eve.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Just one more sleep until Christmas Day.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Begin Christmas Eve with some morning prayers to help keep you centered during what often is a busy day:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>God, as we await Your coming, may today be filled with peace and free of any distractions that lead my heart away from You.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>On this Christmas Eve be with me and all my loved ones, Lord. Let me be present in each moment today, my eyes open to signs of Your love all around me.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>(For Kids) God, thank You for my day today. Thanks for my family who love me and thanks most of all the gift of Jesus.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/christmaseveprayers">Pray with Hallow on Christmas Eve</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="short">Short Christmas Eve Prayer</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Let’s face it: Christmas Eve can be busy. Some combination of meals, Mass, gift wrapping and calls to relatives can make December 24 a whirlwind.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The moment to take time for prayer may come when you don’t expect it. When you find yourself with a few moments to spend in prayer, consider these simple Christmas Eve prayers:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>“Heavenly Father, we thank You for this day and the many blessings You’ve given us. Grant us a restful night of sleep as we await the celebration of the birth of Your Son, Jesus. Amen.”</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>“Dear God, we know that the greatest gift we ever receive is Jesus. May we remember that tomorrow, and may any presents under the tree remind us of our life’s biggest blessing. Amen.”</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>“God, this is the moment history changed–when Jesus became man and entered our world. As we look ahead to tomorrow, we pray that our day celebrates Your love for us.”</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="bible-verses">Christmas Eve Bible Verses</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">There are so many rich Bible passages that tell the story of the birth of Jesus. As we say in Hallow’s Advent <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/pray25/">Pray25</a> Challenge feat. the Chosen, the promise of Jesus’s birth plays out across the entire Bible.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Some of those portions of Scripture include:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Isaiah Chapter 7</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Isaiah Chapter 9</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Luke Chapter 2&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Matthew Chapter 2</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">If you’re looking for some Bible verses before bed, here are some short verses that you can reflect as you get to sleep:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>“The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul. He leads me in right paths for his name’s sake.” Psalm 23:1-3</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Proverbs 3:24-26 “If you sit down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. Do not be afraid of sudden panic, or of the storm that strikes the wicked; for the Lord will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being caught.”</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="dinner-prayers">Christmas Eve Dinner Prayers</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Many families enjoy the tradition of a special meal together on Christmas Eve. The Italian custom of “Feast of 7 Fishes” is just one example of a Christmas Eve dinner that holds a special place for many.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">It’s always good to give thanks for meals. On Christmas Eve, perhaps with a larger audience, hosts may not always know the exact words to say. Christmas Eve dinner prayers need not be long. Short words of gratitude like the following work just fine:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Heavenly Father, as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Your Son, may this meal we share remind us of the many gifts and blessings You give us each day. Amen.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>God, we ask You to bless this meal and everyone at this table. Despite what will be under the tree in the morning, may this meal remind us that some of the most precious gifts we have come from those who show us Your love. In Jesus’s name, we pray. Amen.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="fall-asleep">How to Fall Asleep Fast on Christmas Eve with Prayers</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Whether you’re reflecting on Bible verses or lying awake in bed, it can be a challenge to fall asleep quickly on Christmas Eve, regardless of age!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Children can be too excited to settle in quickly for sleep. Adults might be busy with last-minute prep for Christmas Day or struggle with feelings of stress or anxiety. The sadness of missing lost loved ones can also cause our minds to remain unsettled as we try to sleep.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Prayer and meditation can help people of all ages get to bed more easily on Christmas Eve. Consider short words that you can easily repeat until you doze:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><em>Come, Holy Spirit</em></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><em>Holy Spirit, help me to be patient</em></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><em>Into your hands, Lord, I commend my spirit.</em></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow also offers a number of other <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/prayers-for-sleep/">prayers for sleep</a>, and the app features <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/fall-asleep-with-7-new-bible-stories/">Bible bedtime stories</a> from the likes of Fr. Mike Schmitz (from <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/bible-in-a-year-with-father-mike-schmitz/">Bible in a Year</a>), Chenele Shaw, Matt Fradd, Lila Rose and more. These longer meditations can help you peacefully ease into rest.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/christmaseveprayers">Pray with Hallow on Christmas Eve</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="more-resources">More Christmas Prayer Resources</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-st-andrew-christmas-novena/">St. Andrew Christmas Novena</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/christmas-prayer-catholic-blessings/">Christmas Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/christmas-eve-mass/">Christmas Eve Mass</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/schedule-catholic-christmas-season-octave/">Christmas Season Schedule</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> [post_title] => Christmas Eve Prayers for 2024: Short Morning, Evening, Dinner and Bedtime Prayers (to Fall Asleep on Christmas Eve) [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => christmas-eve-prayers-morning-short-sleep [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2024-07-11 23:54:44 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-07-11 23:54:44 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=30138 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 30028 [post_author] => 24 [post_date] => 2022-12-16 17:03:09 [post_date_gmt] => 2022-12-16 17:03:09 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">For so many people of faith, the voice of the Bocelli family provides the unofficial soundtrack to the season of Christmas.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This Advent, Hallow is excited to partner with the Bocelli Family for the launch of the 12 Days of Christmas Music Challenge.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow will feature music from the Bocelli Family for 12 days leading up to December 25, to enrich the prayer journeys of Hallow users heading into Christmas.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Joining Andrea will be children and fellow musicians Virginia and Matteo Bocelli. The Challenge will also feature music from members of the Sistine Chapel Choir (Sixtini Cantores).</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The 12 Days of Christmas Music Challenge will feature some of the Bocelli’s most well-known songs, including “Ave Maria” and “The Lord’s Prayer,” along with tracks from “A Family Christmas,” the Bocelli Family’s new Christmas album. You can purchase the album <a href="https://andreabocelli.lnk.to/AFCPC">here</a>, or get tickets to their world tour <a href="https://www.andreabocelli.com/tickets">here</a>.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Bocelli Family will also lead a daily Rosary in both English and Italian in the app.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Download Hallow to sign up for the 12 Days of Christmas Music Challenge today.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link" href="https://hallow.app.link/bocelliblog">Listen to the Bocelli Family on Hallow</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="">More Christmas Resources</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-st-andrew-christmas-novena/">St. Andrew Christmas Novena</a></li><li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/christmas-prayer-catholic-blessings/">Christmas Prayers</a></li><li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/christmas-eve-mass/">Christmas Eve Mass Guide</a></li><li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/christmas-music-traditional-religious/">Traditional Christmas Music</a></li></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> [post_title] => Hallow Launches 12 Days of Christmas Music Challenge with the Bocelli Family [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bocelli-family-12-days-christmas-music [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2022-12-21 00:45:21 [post_modified_gmt] => 2022-12-21 00:45:21 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=30028 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 29583 [post_author] => 32 [post_date] => 2022-12-07 12:26:22 [post_date_gmt] => 2022-12-07 12:26:22 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Christmas Eve 2024</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Click any link below to jump to that information section:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#different-masses">Different Christmas Eve Masses</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#vatican">Vatican Christmas Midnight Mass</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#candlelight">Candlelight Services</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#importance">Importance of Christmas Eve</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#crowds">Crowds at Church</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#find-a-service">How to Find a Christmas Eve Mass Near You</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#live-streams">How to Watch a Christmas Eve Mass Live Stream</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#faq">Frequently Asked Questions</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Although it can take place on any day of the week, Christmas Eve, in many ways, is remarkably&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">similar to a regular Sunday liturgy.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Unlike other key moments of the liturgical year, such as <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/palm-sunday/">Palm Sunday</a>, Holy Thursday or the Easter Vigil, the Christmas Eve Mass is not unlike liturgies that take place throughout the year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The service features an Old Testament reading, a responsorial Psalm, a New Testament reading and a Gospel. After the priest’s homily comes the Liturgy of the Eucharist–where the priest consecrates the bread and wine and distributes&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://hallow.com/blog/eucharist-holy-communion-adoration-prayer/" rel="noreferrer noopener">the Eucharist</a>&nbsp;to the parish.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">A pretty standard Mass.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The most striking difference you’ll notice at Christmas Eve Mass–aside from the parking lot being more crowded than usual–is how the church is decorated, often with beautiful poinsettias and other flowers.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Jesus now will be present in the manger in the nativity scene. The Advent wreath may still be in the worship space, but now with a large white candle in its center&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://catholicphilly.com/2019/01/catholic-spirituality/when-should-the-advent-wreath-be-removed-from-church/" rel="noreferrer noopener">or with four white candles</a>&nbsp;replacing the purple and pink ones lit during Advent.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The white candles symbolize the joy and celebration of Jesus’s birth.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The most unique aspect of the Christmas Eve service is&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/liturgical-year-and-calendar/christmas/christmas-proclamation" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Nativity of our Lord Jesus Christ</a>, an ancient text that is often read before the start of Mass. This is sometimes called “Proclamation of the Birth of Christ.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">But Christmas Eve is an incredibly important liturgy. And not all Christmas Eve Masses are the same.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow breaks down everything you need to know about Christmas Eve in 2024.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button {"className":"aligncenter"} --> <div class="wp-block-button aligncenter"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/christmasevemass">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="different-masses">Different Christmas Eve Masses and Times</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Including Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, there are&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/122519-the-nativity-of-the-lord-night.cfm" rel="noreferrer noopener">four Masses</a>&nbsp;that kick off the Christmas season in the Church:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>The Vigil Mass</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Mass During the Night (unofficially called “Midnight Mass”)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Mass at Dawn (sometimes called “Shepherd’s Mass”)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Mass During the Day</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Attending just one of these Masses satisfies the obligation to attend Mass on Christmas (yes–Christmas is a Holy Day of Obligation!) Each Mass has different readings&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Mass During the Night (“Midnight Mass”) traditionally has taken place at midnight, and many Catholics have memories of the custom of attending the liturgy at this time. However, the Mass can take place at different times.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Pope Benedict&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cruxnow.com/vatican/2021/12/vatican-publishes-schedule-of-popes-christmas-liturgies" rel="noreferrer noopener">moved the Mass</a>&nbsp;time to 10 p.m., while Pope Francis has held it at 9:30 p.m. He even moved the Mass to 7:30 p.m. during the pandemic so attendees could return home before the local curfew.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="vatican">Vatican Christmas Eve Mass</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The world’s most famous Christmas Eve liturgy is the Midnight Mass that the Pope celebrates each year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Officially known as Holy Mass on the Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord, Midnight Mass at the Vatican takes place in St. Peter’s Basilica in order to accommodate the large crowd.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Tickets are required, but they’re free.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/c/VaticanNews/videos" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vatican’s own YouTube channel</a>&nbsp;broadcasts midnight Mass from St. Peter’s Basilica every year on Christmas Eve.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In 2021, Vatican Christmas Eve Mass&nbsp;<a href="https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/events/event.dir.html/content/vaticanevents/en/2021/12/24/messa-natale.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">began at 9:30 p.m.</a>, a trend that continued 2022 and figures to continue in 2023.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>SEE MORE: </strong><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/christmas-eve-prayers-morning-short-sleep/">Christmas Eve Prayers</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="candlelight">Candlelight Services</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Candles play an essential role in the Mass throughout the liturgical year.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">They light our entry into the worship space during the Easter Vigil and welcome the newly baptized in the Church.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://hallow.com/blog/advent-candles-and-advent-wreaths/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Advent Candles</a>&nbsp;mark our progression through the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://hallow.com/advent/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Advent season</a>. The flicker of a candle light also signifies the presence of Christ in the tabernacle.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">However, candlelight Christmas Eve services–where the worship space is mostly dark and lit by candles–are more prevalent in other Christian denominations. They often include some form of worship music along with scripture.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">It’s important for Catholics to make it to Mass on either Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="importance">The Importance of Christmas Eve Mass</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In 1969, Pope Paul VI clarified&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/library/liturgical-year-2193" rel="noreferrer noopener">that</a>&nbsp;“The liturgical day runs from midnight to midnight, but the observance of Sunday and solemnities begins with the evening of the preceding day.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This helped make popular “vigil” Masses on Saturday evening since Pope Paul VI made it clear that such liturgies satisfied the standard Sunday obligation.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This opened the door for Christmas Eve liturgies that made it acceptable to not attend Mass on December 25 (a Holy Day of Obligation) so long as one made it to Mass the night before.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Attending Mass on Christmas Eve can be extremely practical for many. The holidays can be stressful, and many people travel on Christmas Day. Christmas Eve can be a great option.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">While Christmas Eve Mass may offer a certain convenience, it’s important to remember its significance and not view it as a chance to “<a target="_blank" href="https://www.americamagazine.org/content/all-things/are-early-midnight-masses-desacralizing-dec-25" rel="noreferrer noopener">go to Mass the day before and get it over with.</a>”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Whether you attend Mass on Christmas Day or Christmas Eve, it remains a Holy Day of Obligation and the celebration of one of the most significant moments in our faith story: when God became man.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="crowds">Crowds at Church</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">With its popularity, Christmas Eve Mass often draws big crowds.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This could include people in your parish who worship at other times on other weekends. It also probably will consist of people who don’t regularly worship at your parish.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Rather than getting frustrated that parking is more challenging or that your usual seat is occupied, consider it an opportunity to welcome in unfamiliar faces and offer the gift of hospitality.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">“Expect that someone will be in your seat and be OK with that,”&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://catholicreview.org/dont-begrudge-newcomers-at-christmas-welcome-them/" rel="noreferrer noopener">says Fr. Joshua Laws, a priest in Baltimore</a>. “At the end of Mass, I always say we’re really glad you joined us. You brought something with you that we wouldn’t have had without you.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="find-a-service">How to Find a Christmas Eve Service Near You</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">With all the other considerations and planning around Christmas Eve, finding a service to attend should be the least of your concerns.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">For starters, consult your local parish bulletin or website. Mass times for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day usually can be found here.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">You can also visit MassTimes.org to see a more robust listing of Mass times in your vicinity. However, special holiday Masses may not be listed, so it’s best to check your parish site.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">If you’re looking for Catholic churches in your area, browse the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.usccb.org/about/bishops-and-dioceses/all-dioceses" rel="noreferrer noopener">USCCB website</a>&nbsp;to find the different dioceses near you. Each of those sites should have a “Parish finder” map that can show you different churches in your area.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">For general Christian churches,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.churchfinder.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Church Finder</a>&nbsp;may be a helpful resource.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="live-streams">Streaming Catholic Christmas Eve Mass</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">If you’d like to watch a livestream of a Catholic Christmas Eve Mass, many options are available.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">One of the benefits of watching any Catholic Mass virtually is the opportunity to see the different liturgical elements that make each parish just a bit unique. All parishes celebrate the same liturgy, but minor elements–like church design, decor and local customs–can vary.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Additionally, you can hear different readings (and a different homily) than you’ll hear at Christmas Day Mass the next day.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Here are Christmas Eve Mass streaming options in different time zones:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/@StJosephtheWorkerDBQ" rel="noreferrer noopener">St. Joseph the Worker in Dubuque, Iowa</a>: 5 p.m. ET</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/@st.marysparishswormville2604" rel="noreferrer noopener">St. Mary in Swormville</a>, N.Y.: 6:30 p.m. ET</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/@NativityParishBurke/about" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nativity Parish</a>&nbsp;in Burke, Va.: 9:30 p.m. ET</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/@marysshrine/featured" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Shrine</a>&nbsp;in Washington, D.C. : 10:30 p.m. ET</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/@LourdesDenver/featured" rel="noreferrer noopener">Our Lady of Lourdes</a>&nbsp;in Denver: 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. MT</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/@SaintPatricksCathedralNYC/featured" rel="noreferrer noopener">St. Patrick’s Cathedral</a>&nbsp;in New York City: Midnight ET</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/@sacredhearthattiesburg" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sacred Heart</a>&nbsp;in Hattiesburg, Miss.: Midnight CT</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/@sjcantius" rel="noreferrer noopener">St. John Cantius</a>&nbsp;in Chicago: Midnight CT</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/@CatholicCommunityatStanford" rel="noreferrer noopener">Catholic Community at Stanford</a>: Midnight PT</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/@StClareRoseville" rel="noreferrer noopener">St. Clare</a>&nbsp;in Roseville, Calif.: Midnight PT</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="faq">Common Questions about Christmas Eve Mass </h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>What time to arrive for Christmas Eve Mass?</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Consider arriving around 30 minutes before the start of Mass. If there is an earlier Mass still going on when you arrive, be sure to allow it to finish before entering.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Is Christmas Eve a Holy Day of Obligation?</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Christmas is a Holy Day of Obligation. Attending Mass on either Christmas Eve or Christmas Day satisfies that obligation.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>What to wear to Christmas Eve Mass?</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Styles are always changing. Christmas Eve Mass is a great opportunity to wear something festive that you’re comfortable in.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>What is a Christmas Eve candlelight service?</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">These services, common in Protestant and non-denominational churches, feature song and scripture in dark worship space.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>How long is a Christmas Eve Mass?</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Christmas Eve Mass is mostly similar to regular Sunday Mass when it comes to the liturgy. However, the larger crowds usually makes the Mass 10-15 minutes longer than usual.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>What time is Mass on Christmas Eve? What’s the earliest time it can be held?</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This varies by parish. Many parishes have more than one Mass. Usually, Mass is no earlier than 4 p.m., although some churches <a href="https://kcgolddome.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/CATHEDRAL-CHRISTMAS-MASS-SCHEDULE.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">have services beginning at 2:30 p.m.</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>How to watch Christmas Eve Mass at the Vatican?</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/VaticanNews/videos" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vatican’s YouTube channel</a> broadcasts Christmas Eve Mass.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button {"className":"aligncenter"} --> <div class="wp-block-button aligncenter"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/christmasevemass">Pray on Christmas Eve with Hallow</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>More Advent and Christmas Resources</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/christmas-prayer-catholic-blessings/">Christmas Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/advent-prayers-catholic-meditations/">Advent Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-st-andrew-christmas-novena/">St. Andrew's Christmas Novena</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/new-years-prayers/">New Years Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> [post_title] => Christmas Eve 2024: Catholic Guide to Christmas Eve, Midnight Mass, Candlelight and Online Services [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => christmas-eve-mass [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2024-09-09 16:11:41 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-09-09 16:11:41 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=29583 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 29382 [post_author] => 43 [post_date] => 2022-11-29 16:42:36 [post_date_gmt] => 2022-11-29 16:42:36 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">While much of the world celebrates Christmas the entire month of December, if not earlier, the liturgical Christmas season begins on Christmas Day, December 25, 2024, and concludes on January 8, 2024. So keep playing your joyful Christmas music and leave up your Christmas tree and decorations until the celebration of <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/feast-of-the-epiphany/">Epiphany</a>!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Table of Contents</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#start-and-end-catholic-christmas">Start and End of the Catholic Christmas Season</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#prepare-catholic-christmas-2022">Preparing for the 2023 Catholic Christmas Season</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#Octave-of-Christmas">Octave of Christmas&nbsp;</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#12-days-of-Christmas">12 Days of Christmas</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="FAQ: Catholic Season of Christmas">FAQ: Catholic Season of Christmas</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="start-and-end-catholic-christmas">When does the Catholic Christmas season start and end?</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In the United States in 2024-2025, the Catholic Christmas season <a href="https://www.usccb.org/prayer-worship/liturgical-year/christmas">begins</a> with the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/christmas-eve-mass/">Christmas Eve</a> Vigil Masses, celebrating the Nativity of the Lord, and ends on Sunday, January 5, the Sunday Mass celebration of the Epiphany of the Lord. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Epiphany has historically been celebrated on January 6, but in the U.S., Epiphany is <a href="https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/35171/want-to-know-the-history-behind-the-feast-of-the-epiphany">celebrated</a> annually on the Sunday between January 2 and January 8.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="prepare-catholic-christmas-2022">Preparing for the 2024 Catholic Christmas Season</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/the-schedule-of-advent-when-does-advent-start/">Advent</a> is the season that precedes Christmas, beginning about four weeks before the Nativity. On the first Sunday of Advent in 2022, Pope Francis encouraged us to prepare our hearts daily for the coming of Christ. He <a href="https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/angelus/2022/documents/20221127-angelus.html#:~:text=Angelus%2C%2027%20November%202022,Francis&amp;text=Dear%20brothers%20and%20sisters%2C%20buongiorno,(Mt%2024%3A42).">said</a>, </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>Let us bear this in mind: </em><strong><em>God is hidden in our life, he is always there – he is concealed in the commonest and most ordinary situations in our life. </em></strong><em>He does not come in extraordinary events, but in everyday things; he manifests himself in everyday things. He is there, in our daily work, in a chance encounter, in the face of someone in need, even when we face days that seem grey and monotonous, it is right there that we find the Lord, who calls to us, speaks to us and inspires our actions.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --><cite>Pope Francis (Angelus on November 27, 2022)</cite></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">As you prepare your heart for the Christmas season, notice the everyday, common, ordinary moments. How does He invite you into relationship with Him?</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em><strong>Read more: <a href="https://hallow.com/advent/">The Complete Guide to the Season of Advent</a></strong></em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="Octave-of-Christmas">The Octave of Christmas</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">What is the Octave of Christmas?</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The <a href="https://www.catholicculture.org/commentary/octave-christmas/">Octave</a> of Christmas includes eight days of feast days and holy celebrations in the Church, beginning on Christmas Day and concluding on New Year’s Day.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:table {"className":""} --> <figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Date</strong></td><td><strong>Celebration</strong></td></tr><tr><td>December 25</td><td>Nativity of the Lord</td></tr><tr><td>December 26</td><td>Feast of St. Stephen</td></tr><tr><td>December 27</td><td>Feast of St. John the Evangelist</td></tr><tr><td>December 28</td><td>Feast of the Holy Innocents</td></tr><tr><td>December 29</td><td>Feast of St. Thomas Becket</td></tr><tr><td>December 30</td><td>Feast of the Holy Family</td></tr><tr><td>December 31</td><td>Feast of St. Sylvester</td></tr><tr><td>January 1</td><td>Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God</td></tr></tbody></table><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Source: <a href="https://www.catholicculture.org/commentary/octave-christmas/">Catholic Culture</a> </figcaption></figure> <!-- /wp:table --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">How to celebrate the Octave of Christmas?</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Attend Mass: </strong>within the Octave of Christmas, the Nativity of the Lord (December 25) and the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God, are holy days of obligation in the Church.&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Pray: </strong>pray alongside the highlighted saints, the Holy Family, and Mary throughout the Octave of Christmas. On Hallow, you can pray with the Daily Saint or “search” for the saint and see what kinds of prayers and reflections are on the app!</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Learn about the saints: </strong>research the <a href="https://hallow.com/saints/">saints</a> you don’t know as well and learn about their lives!&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Listen to Christmas music:</strong> the Christmas season isn’t over until the Sunday after Epiphany! Keep listening to your favorite hymns, and check out all the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/christmas-music-traditional-religious/">Christmas music</a> on Hallow.&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/christmasseason">Pray this Christmas</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="12-days-of-Christmas">12 days of Christmas</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">What are the 12 days of Christmas?</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The <a href="https://uscatholic.org/articles/201112/what-are-the-12-days-of-christmas/">12 Days of Christmas</a> fall between two major Christian feasts: the Nativity on Christmas Day and Epiphany, which is celebrated on January 6; in the U.S. Catholic Church, Epiphany is celebrated on the Sunday after January 6 at Mass. The 12 Days build on the Octave of Christmas, which ends on the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God (New Year’s Day).&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Origin</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Made popular by the sixteenth-century secular “12 days of Christmas” carol, this celebratory 12-day term likely had pre-Christian roots, similar to the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/advent-candles-and-advent-wreaths/#advent-wreaths">Advent wreath</a>, that was adapted into the Christian season of Christmas.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Byran Cones of U.S. Catholic <a href="https://uscatholic.org/articles/201112/what-are-the-12-days-of-christmas/">explains</a>,&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>Like many Christian festivals, the roots of the Christmas season can be found in pre-Christian religions and folk customs. The date of Christmas, for example, is likely connected to an ancient multi-day Roman feast related to the winter solstice.&nbsp;</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>The “12 days” are probably an adaptation of the pre-Christian winter festivals of northern Europe, “Yule” among them. These celebrations helped ancient Europeans get through the longest nights of winter.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --><cite>Byran Cones (U.S. Catholic)</cite></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Tradition also holds that it likely took the Three Kings, or “Magi,” twelve days to journey to baby Jesus. Jesus, the Son of God, was revealed to them when they arrived. We celebrate this revelation on Epiphany.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">12 Days of Christmas in the Catholic Church&nbsp;</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The 12 days include the feasts associated with the Octave and four additional celebratory days.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The <strong>first day of Christmas</strong> is the Nativity of the Lord.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong><em>ALSO: </em></strong><em>Check out Hallow’s guide to </em><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/christmas-prayer-catholic-blessings/"><em>Christmas prayers and blessings</em></a><em>.&nbsp;</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The <strong>second day of Christmas</strong> is the Feast of <a href="https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-stephen">St. Stephen</a>, who died a martyr condemned unjustly.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The <strong>third day of Christmas</strong> is the Feast of <a href="https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-john-the-evangelist">St. John the Evangelist</a>.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The <strong>fourth day of Christmas</strong> is the Feast of the <a href="https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/holy-innocents">Holy Innocents</a>, a day in which we remember all the innocent infants slain by King Herod as he looked for the newborn Messiah.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The <strong>fifth day of Christmas</strong> is the Feast of <a href="https://www.vaticannews.va/en/saints/12/29/st--thomas--becket--bishop-of--canterbury--martyr.html">St. Thomas Becket</a>, Bishop of Canterbury and martyr.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The<strong> sixth day of Christmas</strong> celebrates the Feast of the <a href="https://www.vaticannews.va/en/liturgical-holidays/feast-of-the-holy-family-of-jesus--mary-and-joseph-.html">Holy Family</a>: Mary, Joseph, and Jesus.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The <strong>seventh day of Christmas</strong> is the Feast of (Pope) <a href="https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/saint/st-sylvester-pope-101">St. Sylvester</a> and New Year’s Eve in the secular calendar.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The <strong>eighth day of Christmas </strong>is the<a href="https://hallow.com/blog/solemnity-of-mary-mother-of-god/"> Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God</a>, and New Year’s Day.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The <strong>ninth day of Christmas</strong> is a day in which we celebrate the Feasts of <a href="https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-basil-the-great">St. Basil the Great</a> and <a href="https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-gregory-nazianzen">St. Gregory Nazianzen</a>.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The <strong>tenth day of Christmas</strong> is the Feast of the <a href="https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/overviews/months/01_1.cfm">Most Holy Name of Jesus</a>, and the entire month of January is dedicated to His Holy Name!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The <strong>eleventh day of Christmas</strong> is the Feast of <a href="https://hallow.com/saints/elizabeth-ann-seton/">St. Elizabeth Ann Seton</a>, the first person born in the United States to be canonized.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The <strong>twelfth day of Christmas</strong> is the day before Epiphany. We also celebrate <a href="https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-john-neumann">St. John Neumann’s</a> feast day on the twelfth day of Christmas (January 5).&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/christmasseason">Pray with Hallow</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="FAQ-Catholic-Season-Christmas">FAQ: Catholic Season of Christmas</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:yoast/faq-block {"questions":[{"id":"faq-question-1669739444893","question":[{"type":"strong","props":{"children":["When does the Catholic Christmas season start and end?"]}}],"answer":["The Catholic Christmas season starts on the Nativity, December 25, 2024, and ends on January 5, 2025, the Sunday Mass celebration of the Epiphany. "],"jsonQuestion":"\u003cstrong\u003eWhen does the Catholic Christmas season start and end?\u003c/strong\u003e","jsonAnswer":"The Catholic Christmas season starts on the Nativity, December 25, 2024, and ends on January 5, 2025, the Sunday Mass celebration of the Epiphany. "},{"id":"faq-question-1669739470608","question":[{"type":"strong","props":{"children":["What is the Octave of Christmas? "]}}],"answer":["The Octave of Christmas includes the eight days between Christmas Day and January 1, which is both the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God, and New Year’s Day. "],"jsonQuestion":"\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is the Octave of Christmas? \u003c/strong\u003e","jsonAnswer":"The Octave of Christmas includes the eight days between Christmas Day and January 1, which is both the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God, and New Year’s Day. "},{"id":"faq-question-1669739481846","question":[{"type":"strong","props":{"children":["What are the 12 Days of Christmas, and where did they come from? "]}}],"answer":["The 12 Days of Christmas are the 12 days between Christmas Day and Epiphany. The “12 Days” likely had pre-Christian roots, though the term was likely adapted to fit the Church calendar in celebration of the Nativity. Tradition also holds that the Three Kings' journey to meet the baby Jesus was twelve days. "],"jsonQuestion":"\u003cstrong\u003eWhat are the 12 Days of Christmas, and where did they come from? \u003c/strong\u003e","jsonAnswer":"The 12 Days of Christmas are the 12 days between Christmas Day and Epiphany. The “12 Days” likely had pre-Christian roots, though the term was likely adapted to fit the Church calendar in celebration of the Nativity. Tradition also holds that the Three Kings' journey to meet the baby Jesus was twelve days. "},{"id":"faq-question-1669739496250","question":[{"type":"strong","props":{"children":["What is Epiphany?"]}}],"answer":["Epiphany is the celebration of the revelation of Jesus as the Son of God – here on earth with us. The feast is also ",{"type":"a","props":{"href":"https://shrineofstjude.org/learn/catholic-history/what-is-the-epiphany/","children":["known"]}}," as “Three Kings Day,” the day the Magi visited Jesus in Bethlehem. "],"jsonQuestion":"\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is Epiphany?\u003c/strong\u003e","jsonAnswer":"Epiphany is the celebration of the revelation of Jesus as the Son of God – here on earth with us. The feast is also \u003ca href=\u0022https://shrineofstjude.org/learn/catholic-history/what-is-the-epiphany/\u0022\u003eknown\u003c/a\u003e as “Three Kings Day,” the day the Magi visited Jesus in Bethlehem. "}]} --> <div class="schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block"><div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1669739444893"><strong class="schema-faq-question"><strong>When does the Catholic Christmas season start and end?</strong></strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">The Catholic Christmas season starts on the Nativity, December 25, 2024, and ends on January 5, 2025, the Sunday Mass celebration of the Epiphany. </p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1669739470608"><strong class="schema-faq-question"><strong>What is the Octave of Christmas? </strong></strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">The Octave of Christmas includes the eight days between Christmas Day and January 1, which is both the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God, and New Year’s Day. </p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1669739481846"><strong class="schema-faq-question"><strong>What are the 12 Days of Christmas, and where did they come from? </strong></strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">The 12 Days of Christmas are the 12 days between Christmas Day and Epiphany. The “12 Days” likely had pre-Christian roots, though the term was likely adapted to fit the Church calendar in celebration of the Nativity. Tradition also holds that the Three Kings' journey to meet the baby Jesus was twelve days. </p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1669739496250"><strong class="schema-faq-question"><strong>What is Epiphany?</strong></strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">Epiphany is the celebration of the revelation of Jesus as the Son of God – here on earth with us. The feast is also <a href="https://shrineofstjude.org/learn/catholic-history/what-is-the-epiphany/">known</a> as “Three Kings Day,” the day the Magi visited Jesus in Bethlehem. </p> </div> </div> <!-- /wp:yoast/faq-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>Merry Christmas from our team at Hallow!</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> [post_title] => Christmas 2024 – The Schedule of the Catholic Christmas Season, Octave of Christmas & 12 Days of Christmas [post_excerpt] => The liturgical season of Christmas begins on the Nativity. Read more about this season and the many celebrations associated with it. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => schedule-catholic-christmas-season-octave [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2024-07-11 23:52:20 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-07-11 23:52:20 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=29382 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 29255 [post_author] => 24 [post_date] => 2022-11-21 13:00:00 [post_date_gmt] => 2022-11-21 13:00:00 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Nov. 21, 2022 </strong>- The Catholic Psychotherapy Association (CPA) has partnered with Hallow, a Catholic prayer and meditation app, to provide association members with a personal prayer resource; co-develop content on the intersection of spiritual and mental health; and research the behavioral effects of prayer.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Launched in 2018, Hallow is the #1 Catholic app in the App Store and features audio-guided prayer, meditation, mental health, music, scripture, athletic, and sleep content. Hallow’s mission is to be an accessible tool for anyone to develop or deepen their personal relationship with God, regardless of where they are on their spiritual journey. The app has already been used to pray more than 100 million times in over 150 countries and is currently available in English, Spanish, Polish, and Portuguese, with additional language expansion planned for the future.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">“As we celebrate our 20th Anniversary, this partnership between the CPA and Hallow represents a tremendous opportunity for our members,” said Matt Moleski, Executive Director of the Catholic Psychotherapy Association. “The inclusion of Hallow Plus as a free member benefit underscores the importance of prayer in our daily lives as Catholic mental health professionals. Building upon that prayerful foundation,” he continued, “this partnership unlocks the ability for CPA members to actively engage in the advancement of our mission and meaningfully contribute their expertise to the development of content and research that can help address the mental health challenges facing millions of Catholics across the globe.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">CPA members now have access to Hallow Plus, Hallow’s premium subscription service, and its selection of over 5,000 audio-guided prayers and meditations including:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class=""><li>Daily prayer content, including meditations and reflections on the daily Gospel, the Rosary, daily Examens, and the Divine Mercy Chaplet;</li><li>Talks and exercises on combating addictions led by Dr. Anthony Isacco, Journal Chair of the CPA’s Board of Directors and Director of Training of Chatham University’s School of Health Sciences PsyD Program;</li><li>Content focused on building healthy relationships between friends, family, yourself, and God with Dr. Gerry Crete, CPA Past-President and Clinical Director of Transfiguration Counseling.</li><li>Meditations and reflections on overcoming common emotional wounds by Dr. Bob Schuchts and Sr. Miriam James Heidland of the John Paul II Healing Center;</li><li>Sessions on understanding and overcoming stress and anxiety with Regina Boyd, LMHC, founder of Boyd Counseling Services;</li><li>Prayers and spiritual exercises for families, including family Mass prep, sacramental preparation content, profiles of different Saints, and age-specific formation content;</li><li>Traditional spiritual content including dozens of novenas and litanies;</li><li>Prayers and Bible Stories geared toward finding peace before going to sleep, led by familiar voices such as Mario Lopez, Mark Wahlberg, Sarah Swafford, Fr. Mike Schmitz, and Emily Wilson.</li></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">As part of the newly-announced partnership, Hallow will be working with CPA experts in various fields to co-develop custom, faith-centric content on areas related to social and emotional health. This content will be exclusively available in the Hallow app and include a mix of educational and experiential content.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">“In a world that is increasingly dominated by stress, anxiety, and a general sense of chaos, we could not be more excited to partner with the CPA in their development and promotion of mental health practices centered on an authentically Christian conception of living a full and fulfilled life,” said Hallow co-founder, Alessandro DiSanto.” Christ encourages us, ‘Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.’ (MT 11:28) Our hope with this partnership is to bring that message to as many people as possible, especially those currently suffering from mental health issues and those ministering to them.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In the coming year, Hallow will collaborate with the CPA on an RFP process among members for projects seeking to advance research into the behavioral effects of prayer and other spiritual practices on both mental and spiritual health. Resulting efforts will be reviewed for publication in <a href="https://catholicpsychotherapy.org/Integratus"><em>Integratus</em></a><em>, </em>the Journal of the Catholic Psychotherapy Association.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">For questions regarding the Catholic Psychotherapy Association, please contact admin@catholicpsychotherapy.org.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">For questions regarding Hallow, please contact info@hallow.app.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>About the Catholic Psychotherapy Association</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Founded in 2002, the <a href="https://catholicpsychotherapy.org/">Catholic Psychotherapy Association</a> is incorporated as a 501c3 in the State of Georgia and recognized as a Catholic organization in the Official Catholic (Kenedy) Directory. The mission of the Catholic Psychotherapy Association is to support mental health practitioners by promoting the development of psychological theory and mental health practice which encompasses a full understanding of the human person, family, and society in fidelity to the Magisterium of the Catholic Church.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>About Hallow</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><a href="https://hallow.com/">Hallow</a> helps people deepen their relationship with God through audio-guided prayers, sleep meditations, Bible readings, meditations, and music. The app has over 5,000 sessions including a daily Rosary, daily Gospel, daily saint, novenas, examens, Father Mike Schmitz’s<em> Bible in a Year</em>, <em>The Chosen</em>’s Jonathan Roumie’s audio Bible, Bishop Barron’s Sunday Sermons, peaceful Christian music, Gregorian chant, and so much more. Launched in December 2018, Hallow is now the #1 Catholic app in the world and has been used to pray over 100 million times across 150-plus countries.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> [post_title] => Catholic Psychotherapy Association Announces Hallow as Official Prayer and Meditation App [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => catholic-psychotherapy-association-hallow-partnership [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2022-11-21 15:49:34 [post_modified_gmt] => 2022-11-21 15:49:34 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=29255 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 29081 [post_author] => 43 [post_date] => 2022-11-18 15:00:17 [post_date_gmt] => 2022-11-18 15:00:17 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">While the Feast of the Immaculate Conception falls during Advent, this Catholic holy day and its teaching refer to Mary’s conception, not that of Christ. We celebrate this feast of Our Lady on December 8. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Table of Contents</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#Immaculate-conception-church-teaching">Church Teaching</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#mass-readings-holy-day-obligation">Mass Readings - Holy Day of Obligation&nbsp;</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#Immaculate-Conception-Prayers">Immaculate Conception Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#religious-art">Immaculate Conception in Religious Art</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#Commonly-Asked-Questions">Commonly-Asked Questions</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#Related-Guides">Related Guides</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="Immaculate-conception-church-teaching">Church Teaching on the Immaculate Conception of Mary</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">On December 8, 1854, Pope Pius IX released the <a href="https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/teachings/pius-ixs-ineffabilis-deus-defining-the-immaculate-conception-153">Ineffabilis Deus</a> Apostolic Constitution, which defines and details the dogma of the Immaculate Conception. “Ineffeabilis Deus” is Latin for “Ineffable God.” This term refers to the mystery of God’s omnipotence, wisdom, and plan for us, a mystery we cannot fully comprehend; the Immaculate Conception of Mary is part of this mystery. <em>Ineffabilis Deus</em> states:&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">“We declare, pronounce, and define that the doctrine which holds that the most Blessed <strong>Virgin Mary</strong>, in the first instance of her conception, by a singular grace and privilege granted by Almighty God, in view of the merits of Jesus Christ, the Savior of the human race, <strong>was preserved free from all stain of original sin</strong>, is a doctrine revealed by God and therefore to be believed firmly and constantly by all the faithful.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Feast of the Immaculate Conception celebrates this dogma: Mary was born without original sin so that she could give birth to Christ.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>“[Mary] received the benefits of salvation in Christ from the very moment of her conception,” </strong>Catholic News Agency <a href="https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/resource/55424/the-immaculate-conception">explains</a>.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This dogma can be challenging to understand, and perhaps that is why Pope Pius named the constitution “Ineffabilus Deus.” Its meaning is beyond words, indescribable – all part of the great and beautiful Mystery of faith.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>For more information on this doctrine, read this </em><a href="https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/07674d.htm"><em>article</em></a><em> from New Advent that takes you line-by-line through this statement from Pope Pius IX.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="mass-readings-holy-day-obligation">Mass of the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary&nbsp;</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The <a href="https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/120822.cfm">Mass readings</a> for the Immaculate Conception come from Genesis, St. Paul’s Letter to the Ephesians, and the Gospel of Luke (Lectionary 689).&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In the Gospel reading, the Angel Gabriel appears before Mary, first startling her and then encouraging her not to be afraid. He announces that she will bear the Son of God, and her cousin Elizabeth will also conceive a son. Mary, without hesitation, responds,&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong><em>“Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.” (Luke 1:38).</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">These first three words – <em>“Here am I” </em>or <em>“Here I am” </em>&nbsp;might seem simple at first glance, but they actually represent immense depth in Mary’s faith. Consider how Mary must have felt when she discovered she was to become pregnant. Yet, she responded, “Here am I.” These three words represent Mary’s genuine fiat – her complete <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-surrender-novena/">surrender</a> to God.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">On the Immaculate Conception and throughout Advent, we reflect on Mary’s response to these circumstances; we prepare for the Nativity with her. How might you say “Here I am” like Mary this Advent?&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Check out Hallow’s <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/pray25/">#Pray25 Advent Challenge</a> to journey throughout salvation history to reflect further on this question!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/ImmaculateConception">Pray with Hallow</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="Immaculate-Conception-Prayers">Immaculate Conception Prayers</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Short Prayers for the Immaculate Conception</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><em>Holy Spirit, guide me to the mantle of Mary so that she might draw me closer to Him.&nbsp;</em></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><em>O Mary, you were conceived without sin. Pray for me today as I seek all that is good, holy, and beautiful.&nbsp;</em></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><em>Dear Lord, help me look to Mary as a guide in this life. I pray that I might say “Here I am” to You in perfect confidence as she.&nbsp;</em></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><em>Here I am, Lord.&nbsp;</em></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Pope Francis’ Prayer for the Immaculate Conception (2019)</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In 2019, Pope Francis shared a beautiful prayer on the Immaculate Conception with us. Read the full version <a href="https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/43032/pope-francis-prayer-for-the-immaculate-conception-you-never-stop-loving-your-children">here</a>, or pray alongside Mary with the following excerpts:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>“O Mary Immaculate,</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>we gather around you once again.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>The more we go on in life</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>the more our gratitude to God increases</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>for giving to us as a mother, we that are sinners,</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>You, who are the Immaculate.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>Among all human beings, you are the only one</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>preserved from sin, as the mother of Jesus</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>But this your unique privilege</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>it was given to you for the sake of us all, your children.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>[...]</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>We thank you, Immaculate Mother,</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>for reminding us that, by the love of Jesus Christ,</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>we are no longer slaves to sin,</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>but free, free to love, to love each other,</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>to help each other as brothers, even if different from us.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>Thank you for encouraging us with your candor</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>not to be ashamed of good, but of evil;</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>help us to keep the evil one away from us,</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>who with deceit draws us to himself, into the coils of death;</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>give us the sweet memory that we are children of God,</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>the Father of immense goodness,</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>the eternal source of life, beauty and love. Amen.”</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="religious-art">The Immaculate Conception in Religious Art</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Immaculate Conception of Mary is featured prominently in Christian religious art.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Mary typically wears a gold crown and blue shroud and stands atop a hill. Paintings of the Immaculate Conception sometimes feature <a href="https://www.catholic.com/qa/why-are-roses-associated-with-mary">roses</a>, like images of <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/feast-of-our-lady-of-guadalupe-prayers-celebrations/">Our Lady of Guadalupe</a>. Look for these depictions in art in your home parish or museums with religious art. Consider taking a virtual tour of the <a href="https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en.html">Vatican Museums</a> and looking for images of the Immaculate Conception.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="Commonly-Asked-Questions">Commonly-Asked Questions</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>What is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception?&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Feast, or Solemnity, of the Immaculate Conception celebrates that Mary was conceived without original sin. As Pope Pius IX said in 1854, and as quoted in the Catechism, “The most Blessed Virgin Mary was, from the first moment of her conception, by a singular grace and privilege of almighty God and by virtue of the merits of Jesus Christ, Savior of the human race, preserved immune from all stain of original sin.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>When is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception?&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is December 8. In 2023, the Immaculate Conception falls on a Friday.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception a holy day of obligation?&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Yes, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception is a <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/holy-days-of-obligation/">holy day of obligation</a>. Catholics, who are able to, are expected to attend Mass on the Immaculate Conception.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>What are the symbols of the Immaculate Conception?</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The prominence of the Immaculate Conception of Mary in religious art has led scholars to study the symbols, or theological <a href="https://udayton.edu/imri/mary/i/immaculate-conception-emblems.php">“emblems,”</a> of Mary. Such emblems include the unicorn, the enclosed garden, Mary on a mountain, and crushing the serpent. Read more on the many symbols of Mary from the <a href="https://udayton.edu/imri/mary/i/immaculate-conception-emblems.php">University of Dayton</a>.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>How is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception celebrated?</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">As a holy day of obligation in the Church, Catholics worldwide celebrate the Immaculate Conception by attending Mass. You can also pray the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/">Rosary</a> or <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-hail-mary/">Hail Mary</a> to commemorate this feast day!&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In Rome, there is a longstanding <a href="https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/249816/pope-francis-makes-early-morning-visit-to-immaculate-conception-statue-in-rome">tradition</a> of the Pope to place a floral wreath atop the column and statue of the Immaculate Conception in the Piazza Mignanelli, near the famous Spanish Steps and Plaza di Spagna. Traditionally, the Pope places the wreath in the afternoon, surrounded by thousands of people. The statue was dedicated three years after Pope Pius IX decreed the dogma of the Immaculate Conception.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/ImmaculateConception">Pray with Hallow</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="Related-Guides">Related Guides</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-54-day-novena/">54-Day Rosary Novena</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/">Rosary Prayer</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/7-sorrows/">7 Sorrows Rosary</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-mary-undoer-of-knots-novena/">Mary, Undoer of Knots Novena</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-divine-mercy-chaplet/">Divine Mercy Chaplet&nbsp;</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-latin-rosary/">Latin Rosary</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-st-therese-novena/">St. Thérèse Novena</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> [post_title] => Feast of the Immaculate Conception 2024 – Church Teachings, Mass Readings, and Prayers [post_excerpt] => We celebrate the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception on December 8th. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => feast-of-the-immaculate-conception-church-teaching-prayers [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2024-09-09 15:48:37 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-09-09 15:48:37 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=29081 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )