Rorate Masses at Church of Holy Innocents

This year, the Church of the Holy Innocents in New York will have 10 Rorate Masses again during the first part of the holy season of Advent.

The Rorate Mass is a traditional Advent devotion wherein the Mass of the Blessed Virgin Mary for Advent is offered just before dawn. The Mass takes its title from the first words of the Introit (Rorate Caeli), which are from Isaiah 45:8:

“Rorate, caeli, … Drop down dew, ye heavens, from above, and let the clouds rain the just: let the earth be opened and bud forth a Saviour.”

The Rorate Mass is lit only by candlelight. Because it is a votive Mass in Mary’s honor, white vestments are worn instead of Advent violet. In the dimly lit setting, priests and faithful prepare to honor the Light of the world, Who is soon to be born, and offer praise to God for the gift of Our Lady. As the Mass proceeds and sunrise approaches, the church becomes progressively brighter, illumined by the sun as our Faith is illumined by Christ.

The readings and prayers of the Mass foretell the prophecy of the Virgin who would bear a Son called Emmanuel.

***The “Rorate Mass” will be celebrated at the Church of the Holy Innocents on the following days of Advent:

· Monday, December 4 – at 6AM
· Tuesday, December 5 – at 6AM
· Wednesday, December 6 – at 6AM
· Thursday, December 7 – at 6AM
· Saturday, December 9 – at 6AM
· Monday, December 11 – at 6AM
· Wednesday, December 13 – at 6AM
· Thursday, December 14 – at 6AM
· Friday, December 15 – at 6AM
· Saturday, December 16 – at 6AM