Rorate Cæli Candlelight Mass

Come join us for this beautiful pre-dawn candlelight Mass in the honour of Our Blessed Mother during this Advent. Candles will be provided.

Music Selection

Kyriale
Mass for Four Voices – W. Byrd
During Offertory
Alma Redemptoris Mater – G.P. Palestrina
During Communion
Ave Maria – G.P. Palestrina
Recessional Hymn
Mo Maria

What is a Rorate Caeli Mass? 

Rorate Caeli is Latin for “Drop down, ye heavens” and are the opening words of the Introit (which is an opening psalm or antiphon), coming from Isaiah 45:8.

“Rorate, caeli, desuper, et nubes pluant justum, aperiatur terra, et germinet Salvatorem.”

“Drop down dew, ye heavens, from above, and let the clouds rain the just: let the earth be opened and bud forth a Savior.” – Isaiah 45:8

A Rorate Caeli Mass is traditionally celebrated just before dawn in Advent as a devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Mass is only lit by candles, representing Mary’s role in bringing the Light of the World into the darkness of the world.

What is the History of the Rorate Caeli? 

The Rorate Caeli Mass originated in the Middle Ages as one of the many Advent devotions to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Liturgy was very popular among the people, especially in German-speaking areas, and was commonly celebrated on all Saturdays during Advent, with some areas having a Rorate Mass several or even all weekdays in the season.

How is it Celebrated? 

Mass begins in darkness before sunrise, with only candles lighting the church to remind us of a world in darkness and sin that is anticipating the coming of the “Light of the World.” As Mass progresses, the church becomes brighter until the risen sun fills it with the light of day. As a votive Mass for the Blessed Mother, white vestments are worn instead of the violet normally used during Advent. The Mass readings and prayers highlight the prophecies of the coming of Christ and Mary’s role in bringing the Light into the world.