Pope Francis won't be taking any Christmas vacation this year. Instead, his schedule will be filled with liturgical celebrations at the Vatican.
On Christmas Eve, the Pope will celebrate Mass at the main altar of St. Peter's Basilica, with a greater number of pilgrims permitted to attend than in 2020. It will begin at 7:30 PM Rome time.
Pope Francis will return to the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica at noon on Christmas Day to deliver the Urbi et Orbi blessing to the city of Rome, and to Catholics worldwide. Due to the pandemic, last year the Pope gave this blessing from the Hall of Blessing above the atrium of St. Peter's Basilica.
On New's Year Eve, he will offer a “Te Deum” prayer in the Basilica at 5 PM to give thanks for the past year, before visiting the Nativity scene in St. peter's Square.
To ring in the the new year, the Pope will celebrate Mass for the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God on January 1 at 10 AM. The celebration coincides with World Peace Day.
He will celebrate Mass again on January 6 in St. Peter's Basilica for the feast of the Epiphany, to commemorate the visit of the Magi to Jesus.
Although their numbers will be limited, Pope Francis will finally be able to celebrate Christmas at the Vatican with greater participation of the faithful once again.
JM
