The midnight Mass on Dec. 24 is especially affected by the pandemic around the world.
The archdiocese of Mexico City is taking the situation very seriously, and it has prohibited in-person Mass celebrations from Dec. 19 until Jan. 10.
Very few places will be able to celebrate midnight Mass, in order to respect curfews.
The Vatican has moved the midnight Mass to 7:30 in the evening so the faithful can return to their homes before 10 p.m.
The same is happening in Paris, France, and Medellin, Colombia.
Besides finishing early, they will limit the number of pilgrims, and choirs will be smaller to avoid contagion.
In Boston, people who want to attend Mass will have to register on their parish website or by phone. Those who don't find open spots or prefer not to go out will be able to follow the liturgies from home.
Changes this Christmas will also be noticeable in Bethlehem, where foreigners and pilgrims from other cities in the region will be barred from attending. The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem says celebrations will be low-key.
Festivities this year will feel more subdued, somewhat similar to the first Christmas in history.
Javier Romero
Translation: CT
