How Roman Catholics celebrate the Nativity of the Lord (Christmas). For Roman Catholics, Christmas is far more than a one-day celebration on December 25; it is a sacred season in the Church’s liturgical calendar, filled with joy, reverence, and profound spiritual significance. The liturgical season of Christmas begins with the vigil Mass on Christmas Eve and concludes on the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord --- United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. The date of the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord varies slightly each year. When the Solemnity of the Epiphany is transferred to the Sunday that falls on January 7 or 8, the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord is observed on the following Monday (General Roman Calendar, Roman Missal, 3rd Edition). The Feast of the Baptism of the Lord which marks the end of the Christmas season, can occur as late as January 13. For 2025 it will take place on January 12, and the Liturgical season of Ordinary Time will begin the following day. It is also worth noting that many Eastern Catholics and Orthodox Christians, following the Julian calendar, celebrate the Nativity of the Lord (Christmas) on or near January 7, adding to the richness and diversity of the Christian liturgical tradition. I Wish you the peace of Christ this Christmas and a grace-filled New Year! Some Catholics who follow the Traditional forms of the liturgy celebrate until February 2nd (40 days) which is the feast of the purification of Mary.
By: Cosmos Ateli, B.Sc. - Email Atelicosmos1@gmail.com
Cosmos Ateli, is a lover of Customer Experience and a writer for Catholic News World. He has a B.Sc degree in Marketing from Delta State University, Nigeria. He is an aspiring Canon Lawyer.
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