While I admit to not being a regular churchgoer for most of the year, I have not missed a Midnight Mass for as long as I can remember. It is the one time in the year when I am especially moved by those who have strong religious convictions.
It's like when I watch a documentary about Lourdes, or Medjugorje, or Fatima on the travel channel. The candles, the voices raised in solemn song, the look on the faces of the faithful: some may regard these as overused or superficial signposts of religious faith, but they can have a certain effect upon one's Weltanschauung, despite the secular humanism that someone like me espouses.
Christmas is a time for family, and as I write this, I am awaiting the arrival at our house of some family members and friends. My wife is preparing a prime rib roast, and I have made a stew of bacalhau, or salt cod. There will be Christmas cake and Christmas pudding, baked sweet potatoes with marshmallows, a salad, and a variety of cakes and sweets.
I am grateful for what we have, especially for our health and wellbeing and the love of family and friends.
Peace on earth — we hope and pray for that.
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