Pope Francis kneeling in prayer when he celebrated Christmas Eve Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica. (CNS photo/Paul Haring)
VATICAN CITY — As 2013 comes to a close, people can follow today’s traditional evening prayer service with Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Basilica.
The celebration of Vespers, which begins at 5 p.m. Rome time (11 a.m. EST), will end with the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and the singing of the “Te Deum” hymn of thanksgiving to God.
The liturgical booklet is here and the video feed (starting at 4:30 p.m. Rome time) here.
After the prayer service, the pope is scheduled to visit the Nativity scene in St. Peter’s Square.
Ring in the new year Jan. 1 by following the papal Mass celebrating the feast honoring Mary, Mother of God.
The liturgical booklet is here and the video feed (starting at 9:30 a.m. Rome time/3:30 a.m. EST) is here.
Pope Francis holding a dove before his weekly audience in St. Peter’s Square May 15. (CNS photo/Stefano Rellandini, Reuters)
Don’t forget that the church also celebrates the World Day of Peace Jan. 1. Pope Francis’ first peace day message, about the spirit of fraternity being the foundation of peace, is here.
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I wish I had seen this on New Year’s Eve! It didn’t appear in my news feed till January 2nd.
Catholicism and the pope are not the solution .They are the problem .They follow themselves .They follow the religious ideology of do good for humanity and God will be impressed and possible offer you heaven .That is absolutely 100% false . The truth is not in being catholic or religious .The truth is none of us are good .The bible proclaims this all human kind is wicked and rebellious against God .This is we all are sinners guilty of judgement and hell .Read the real biblical solution people .There is only one way ,one truth ,Jesus God .He is the solution not all world religions either .If you will believe Jesus atoned for your sins on the cross .If you will confess your sin to who ? Jesus He is just and faithful to forgive all your sins and Cleanse you completely .God word the bible is the arbitrator of truth .Not the pope or some church .Bible says heaven is assured to all who believe on Jesus
forgiveness . Life … What the meaning of it all anyway ?
God sent Jesus to live among us and show us the way to heaven. He showed us how to live through his deeds, not just words. He taught us to love each other, the poor and the rich. He taught us to be in service to make the world a good place and to reach out to those in need. Pope Francis is showing us through his actions that we all need to live the lives that Jesus laid out for us. He is making the church a beacon of hope as I believe Jesus and GOD the father intend. He is not the problem but an example of hope for all. Bless you Holy Father for leading us through your example.