Everything You Need To Know About Midnight Mass In London

If you’re in London over the Christmas period, then you may want to attend Mass. Of course, there are plenty of places you can go for a Christmas Mass, whether you do this on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.

However, we also know that it is traditional for many people to attend Midnight Mass for Christmas. Luckily, there are plenty of places to do this in London, and we are here to help you find them!

In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about Midnight Mass in London, including the best places to go, what Midnight Mass is, and why it is important to Christians. If you’re interested, read on for more!

What Is Midnight Mass?

Midnight Mass is a tradition followed by Catholics and Christians in which they gather at the Church on Christmas Eve to celebrate the birth of Jesus. Midnight Mass typically starts just before the clock strikes 12 on Christmas Day.

Catholic Midnight Mass includes all of the important parts of a mass, including the eucharist and transubstantiation. Meanwhile, Christians will attend a Midnight Mass service that does not involve the latter.

The tradition of Midnight Mass is widely believed to have been started in the western world under the rule of Pope Sixtus III in 430 C.E, and it is believed to have been started in the Basilica of St Mary Major.

Midnight Mass saw a boom in popularity in the 1100s.

Why Do People Go To Church On Christmas Eve?

Sextus Julius Africanus, a Roman Catholic historian, believed the date of Jesus’ conception to have been around the 25th of March.

So, because December 25th is exactly nine months after this date, it was chosen as the date of the birth of Jesus.

However, there is also a theory to suggest that December 25th was the date chosen to celebrate the birth of Jesus, or Christmas, because of the winter solstice.

It is important to note that the date Jesus was born is not specified in the Bible. Christians will attend Mass on Christmas Eve (and Christmas Day) to dedicate the season to God and celebrate the birth of Jesus.

Where Are The Best Places To Go For Midnight Mass Services In London?

If you’re in London and are interested in attending a Midnight Mass, then here are some of the best places to go!

Church Of England: St. Martin-In-The-Fields

St. Martin In-The-Fields provides a midnight mass service every year. Here, you can attend a wonderful service complete with a choir that sings throughout – it is definitely music to remember!

Visitors to the church are also invited to attend a 3-course dinner which takes place before the service. Although, it is important to note that you need to purchase these tickets beforehand.

You can book Midnight Mass Dinner by clicking the link.

Church Of England: Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is one of the most popular places to go for a midnight mass service in London. A choir sings throughout the entire service, which is beautiful to experience.

You need to book a ticket to attend a midnight mass service here. Visit the Westminster Abbey website for more information.

Church Of England: St James’s Piccadilly

St James’s parish is located in Central London. This church was actually designed by the architect Christopher Wren, and so the building is as beautiful as the service.

You do not need tickets to attend a midnight mass service here. Click the link to St James’s Piccadilly website for more information.

Roman Catholic: Westminster Cathedral

There are many Midnight Masses held throughout the day on Christmas Eve at Westminster Cathedral, including a popular 7 PM service that features beautiful music, a choir, and Christmas hymns.

Click the Westminster Cathedral website for more information.

Where Does The Most Famous Midnight Mass Service Take Place?

For Catholics, the most famous Midnight Mass takes place in the Vatican. People like to gather in St. Peter’s Basilica to hear the Christmas message from the Pope. You need to book 2 months in advance if you wish to get tickets.

For Christians, popular places to go for a midnight mass service are Westminster Abbey. Midnight Mass is also held in Bethlehem, which is recorded in the Bible as the birthplace of Jesus.

There are limited tickets inside the church in Bethlehem. However, many crowds will gather outside of it in manger square to listen to Mass.

Final Thoughts

Midnight Mass and midnight mass services are important to Christians and Catholics all over the world. If you find yourself in London over the Christmas period, there are plenty of places that you can go to celebrate.

If you would like a Christian service, then popular places include Westminster Abbey, St. Martin-In-The-Fields, and St. James’s Piccadilly. If you would like a Catholic service, then the best place to go is Westminster Cathedral.