Christmastide Season Kicked Off On Christmas Day

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While the world often packs away the decorations on December 26th, the Catholic Church is just beginning its celebration of Christmastide. This liturgical season officially commences with the Vigil Mass on Christmas Eve and extends through the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord. It is a time of profound joy and reflection, where we move beyond the initial excitement of the Nativity to contemplate the mystery of the Incarnation—God becoming man to dwell among us. During these days, the white vestments at Mass symbolize purity and light, inviting the faithful to remain in a spirit of adoration and to recognize the "Word made flesh" in our daily lives.

Central to this season is the tradition of the Twelve Days of Christmas, which bridge the gap between the birth of Christ and the Solemnity of the Epiphany. Often misunderstood as a mere countdown to Christmas Day, these twelve days actually represent the festive journey toward the arrival of the Magi. Each day within the octave and the subsequent days leading to Epiphany honors various saints and mysteries—such as St. Stephen and the Holy Innocents—deepening our understanding of the sacrifices and glory associated with Christ’s mission. By observing the full twelve days, we resist the "holiday rush" and allow the peace of the manger to truly take root in our hearts before returning to Ordinary Time.

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