On Christmas Eve, over 1000 people gathered at the St John the Baptist Cathedral in Norwich for the Nativity of the Lord Family Mass. This particular Mass is popular with families as it is when the baby Jesus is taken and placed in the crib in the Cathedral’s St Joseph’s Chapel. Cathedral Dean Fr Alan Hodgson called all the children to come forward and then led them and the Baby Jesus to the crib. During his homily, Fr Alan talked about his favorite Christmas things, including mince pies and Christmas pudding, but emphasized that the most important aspect of Christmas is the birth of Jesus. He stressed the importance of remembering the true meaning of Christmas in the midst of all the busyness and excitement, and the significance of coming together as a community to celebrate the birth of Lord Saviour Jesus Christ.
The Mass was a joyous occasion, with families coming together to celebrate the birth of Jesus. Fr Alan Hodgson’s message about the true meaning of Christmas resonated with the congregation, reminding them to focus on the spiritual significance of the holiday amidst the commercialization and festivities. The atmosphere was one of unity and togetherness, as the community gathered to worship and reflect on the miraculous event that Christmas commemorates. The highlight of the Mass was the symbolic act of placing the baby Jesus in the crib, signifying the arrival of the Savior and the beginning of the Christmas season.
The Nativity of the Lord Family Mass at St John the Baptist Cathedral in Norwich was a heartwarming and spiritually enriching experience for all who participated. The tradition of placing the baby Jesus in the crib served as a poignant reminder of the reason for the season, prompting attendees to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. Fr Alan Hodgson’s homily, which emphasized the importance of coming together as a community to celebrate the birth of Jesus, resonated with the congregation and served as a meaningful message for the holiday season. Overall, the Mass was a beautiful and memorable celebration that brought families and the community together in joy and reverence.
The Nativity of the Lord Family Mass at St John the Baptist Cathedral in Norwich was a powerful and unifying experience that brought the community together to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas. Fr Alan Hodgson’s message about the significance of the birth of Jesus underscored the spiritual essence of the holiday, encouraging attendees to reflect on the blessings of the season. The Mass served as a reminder to prioritize faith and togetherness during the Christmas season, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose among all who participated. The tradition of placing the baby Jesus in the crib symbolized the arrival of the Savior and set the tone for a meaningful and joyous celebration of the birth of Lord Saviour Jesus Christ.
