On November 27, 2021, the Holy See Press Office published the Pope’s Christmas season calendar of the celebrations presided over by the Holy Father until January 9, for the feast of the Immaculate Conception and Christmastide.
December 8, Feast of the Immaculate Conception
To avoid crowds and the consequent risk of COVID-19 contagion, instead of the usual public homage to the Immaculate Conception, as was also the case last year, this coming December 8 the Holy Father will carry out a private act of devotion. He will pray to the Virgin to protect the Romans, the city in which they live, and the sick worldwide who need Her maternal protection.
December 24, Christmas Eve
Christmastide is marked by numerous celebrations, presided over by the Pope, and followed throughout the world. At 7:30 pm on December 24, the Pontiff will preside over the Midnight Mass in Saint Peter’s Basilica.
December 25, Urbi et Orbi Blessing
At 12 noon on Saturday, December 25, the traditional Urbi et Orbi Blessing will take place.
December 31, Vespers and Te Deum
At 5:00 pm on Friday, December 31, the Pope will preside over the First Vespers of the Solemnity of Mary Most Holy Mother of God, in the Vatican Basilica, and recite the Te Deum in thanksgiving for the past year.
January 1, Feast of Mary Most Holy Mother of God and Day of Peace
At 10:00 am on the first day of the New Year, Solemnity of Mary Most Holy Mother of God, and the 55th World Day of Peace, the Pope will preside over the Mass in Saint Peter’s Basilica.
January 6, Epiphany of the Lord
On the Solemnity of the Lord’s Epiphany, the Pontiff will go again to the Vatican Basilica, to celebrate the Eucharist at 10:00 am.
January 9, Baptism of the Lord
The Sunday after Epiphany, feast of the Baptism of the Lord, the Bishop of Rome’s traditional appointment will take place in the Sistine Chapel. He will preside over the Mass at 9:30 am and administer Baptism to some children, accompanied by their parents.
Translation by Virginia M. Forrester
