December 9, 16, and 23
6 am - Rorate Mass
6:30 am - Advent Reflection
Light breakfast to follow in St. Joseph Hall

On the Saturdays of Advent this year we will celebrate special early morning Masses in honor of the Blessed Virgin and her role in bringing to birth our Savior. These candlelight Masses, called Rorate Masses, take their title from an Advent hymn in Latin that beautifully expresses their theme, as we pray “drop down dew, ye heavens, from above, and let the clouds rain down the just one: let the earth be opened and bring forth a Savior.” (Our Masses will be in English.)
 
A Rorate Mass is traditionally celebrated just before dawn in Advent as a devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Mass is only lit by candles, representing Mary’s role in bringing the Light of the World to us.  Mass begins in darkness before sunrise, to remind us of a world in darkness and sin that is anticipating the coming of Christ. As a votive Mass for the Blessed Mother, white vestments are worn instead of the violet normally used during Advent. The Mass readings and prayers highlight the prophecies of the coming of Christ and Mary’s role in bringing the Light into the world.
 
May the quiet darkness of these early Saturday mornings lead us to a more reflective and prayerful time as we prepare for the coming of the Savior at Christmas. 
 
Our Saturdays in Advent will begin with the Mass, followed at 6:30 AM by a time of meditative spiritual reflection (“Lectio Divina”) on Advent themes. A light breakfast and conversation will follow in St. Joseph Hall.