Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve has long been a hallmark of the holiday season for Luxembourg's Catholic community, with St Michael's Church in Luxembourg City hosting one of the few remaining services.
Attending Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve is a cherished tradition for many Catholics in Luxembourg. While the number of these services has decreased in recent years, parishes across the Grand Duchy continue to uphold the custom. Our colleagues from RTL Télé followed one such service at St Michael's Church in Luxembourg City.
As tradition dictates, the Mass began at midnight with the placement of Baby Jesus in the crib, next to his parents, Mary and Joseph.
This special Christmas Mass is one of the few, if not the only, Catholic services still celebrated at midnight.
Jean Ehret, a theologian and director of the John XXIII Centre, explained that Christmas marks more than just the birth of Jesus for Christians. It symbolises the birth of "a new hope" for all people.
The Midnight Mass at St Michael's Church was a festive celebration, embracing the theme of diversity. Several languages were used throughout the service.
Located at Marché-aux-Poissons, St Nicholas Church is the oldest religious building still standing in Luxembourg City. Like many other structures, it was damaged during the bombardment by French troops in 1683, which took place around Christmas time.
Since 1967, the church choir has been an integral part of the Midnight Mass, performing alongside an orchestra and soloists to enhance the musical experience.
Gerry Welter, the choir conductor, shared that he grew up near Marché-aux-Poissons, as did his parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents. For Welter, contributing to this local event is important, and he intends to continue doing so "until I'm no longer able."
The Midnight Mass at St Michael's Church was well-attended, with nearly all seats filled. Ehret noted that even non-Christians often attend to enjoy the musical performance.
The service concluded after approximately 90 minutes.
