The Rorate Masses celebrated during Advent take their name from the words "Rorate caeli desuper" (Rain down the dew of heaven) spoken by the prophet Isaiah. It is worth reflecting on the significance of this special form of Mass at this time and how we can fully benefit from this gift of ecclesiastical tradition.
Rorate is a Mass celebrated in honour of Mary. During Advent weekdays, a white candle with a blue ribbon is placed near the altar to symbolize Mary. Why is the Mass celebrated at dawn? This early hour is a reminder for us to remain vigilant at all times so that we don't miss the moment of the birth of the Divine Child. Of course, pastoral considerations allow these Masses to be celebrated in the evening so that more people can participate, but it's still important to remember the aspect of vigilance and readiness for the coming of Christ. Waking up early in the morning requires sacrifice and overcoming the difficulties of getting to church at such an early hour. It's a significant part of the Advent preparation for encountering Jesus. By making small sacrifices ourselves, we can continue to show our readiness to encounter God. At the same time, it is a symbolic surrender of one's time, and thus one's life, to the One who is the Lord of all.
At the beginning of every Mass, the darkness symbolizes the world waiting for Jesus, who is represented by the light. The first light that dispels this darkness is the “rorate”, a candle symbolizing the Immaculate Conception. This candle bears a flame, just as Mary carried Jesus in her womb. During the Rorate, participants bring lanterns, each one bearing light to express their desire to participate in Mary's expectation of the birth of Jesus. They want Jesus to be present in their lives, to illuminate their paths, and to guide them through daily life with its joys and concerns. This simple gesture contains a profound message about how we should arrange our relationship with God during Advent.
In our parish, there are Rorate Masses every Saturday morning during Advent at 7:00 am.
- December 9, 2023, at 7:00 am
- December 16, 2023, at 7:00 am
- December 23, 2023, at 7:00 am.
We cordially invite you to join us in prayer.
Please note that there will be no mass at 9:00 am on Saturday mornings during Advent.