A contemplative Advent season
Advent begins in the days leading up to the first Sunday in Advent with the blessing of Advent wreaths. This custom originated in northern Germany and became established in the Alpine region in the 20th century; it was not until 1925 that the first Advent wreath was hung in a Catholic church. The green of the brushwood stands for the "hope of the birth of the Redeemer", the four candles symbolize the four Sundays of Advent until Christmas.
Masses that are celebrated early in the morning before sunrise during Advent are called Rorate Masses. "Rorate" means "Dew the heavens from above", which is the beginning of a verse from the Book of Isaiah that is prayed during these pre-Christmas Eucharistic celebrations. Usually, a procession is led by candlelight or torches to the church, where this atmospheric mass is celebrated. Afterwards, people are often invited to a small breakfast.
Christmas Eve is not a public holiday, it is just the eve of "Christmas Day", on which the "Solemnity of the Nativity of Christ" is celebrated. The Catholic Church has traditionally celebrated the birth of Christ, who was born during the night (Gospel of Luke 2:8), starting at midnight on December 25. With this nocturnal service, the "Christmas Mass", Christians prepare for Christmas, which is celebrated on December 25. A rich tradition has developed around this night; today, Christmas trees and nativity scenes are set up everywhere and presents are given because people want to pass on the joy of the Lord's birth.
Nowadays, Christmas Eve services usually begin later in the evening and are often accompanied by brass bands or carol singers. There are nativity celebrations for children in the afternoon so that the time until the presents are given is not so long.
