Getting Together, or Getting It Out of the Way?

Families are obviously under great stress at Christmas. "Christmas is a very busy, stressful time, especially for mothers," said one. "Balancing the family's needs and schedule (pre-teen, teen, college, married children) to attend Christmas Mass as a family can be a challenge. Choosing a time that ‘works' for mom and dad to celebrate as a family is insignificant, if it is at 4 p.m., 10 p.m., or midnight. Celebrate, family, and Christ is what matters." (Timing is also a concern for the elderly: even Pope Benedict XVI celebrated Midnight Mass last year at 10 p.m.)

But perhaps we also need to look at the cultural reasons that make so many Christian families so stressed and, in a sense, unable to attend Mass on Christmas Day. Is increasing consumerism, and the emphasis on more gifts, forcing families to choose the earlier and earlier Masses?

Some people who posted were concerned: "I do think that all the Vigil Masses—as necessary as they might be (and we take advantage of them often)—lead to a get-it-out-of-the-way attitude," one woman wrote. Another coined an interesting phrase. "We have become a ‘Christmas Eve culture,'" he wrote, "perhaps an outgrowth of 'rushing the season.' Christmas Day, especially Christmas morning has become sacrosanct to families, for opening presents, laying around in pajamas, etc."

Do earlier Masses change anyone's experience of the Feast? "In San Francisco and in Oakland," one person posted, "most Christmas Masses start at 10:00 p.m.—which I feel takes away from the mystery and solemnity of Christmas, and I for one, would appreciate a return to the Midnight Mass." 

To round out the discussion, let's return to Fr. Baldovin, who not only understands liturgical history but has a realistic understanding of the stresses placed on families this time of year. Are Masses being moved up earlier on the 24th? "Absolutely," he said. "More and more, you'll find churches empty on Christmas Day. People want to get it out of the way. They want to have the morning of Christmas for opening presents."

"But I'm a realist and I understand," he said. "It works for most people's schedules and it is one of the few times when families can go to church together. And there's a real value there."

"Once you allow for vigil Masses, however," said Fr. Baldovin, "there may be a good question to ask: Is convenience the most important consideration?"