Christmas Traditions at St. Mary Monastery

By Sister Mary Core, OSB

Every family has its own Christmas traditions. Our Christmas Vigil is one of ours.

It takes place on Christmas Eve. We process quietly into the darkened chapel, holding lighted candles.

We take our seats and extinguish our candles.

The chapel lights up with Christmas lights and song as we receive the gift of the Christ child.

One of our Sisters places the Infant in the manger. Sister Rose Joseph Kennebeck placed the Baby last year.

(We've had this beautiful Baby since our foundress brought him back from Europe more than 100 years ago.)

Afterwards, we enjoy a fun social together, with cocoa and cookies in our festively decorated community room.

On Christmas Day, we will celebrate Mass, sing carols, enjoy a special meal, open gifts and spend time together.

We love our simple, beautiful and meaningful traditions.

Please know that, throughout, you are held in prayer.

May you have a blessed Christmas!