Join us at the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe for one of the most beautiful and atmospheric liturgies of the liturgical year: the Rorate Caeli Mass.

Offered in the early morning darkness of Advent, this Votive Mass in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a profound way to prepare our hearts for the birth of Christ. As we wait in the quiet shadows of the sanctuary, we mirror the world’s ancient longing for the “Light of the World” to dawn.

What is a Rorate Caeli Mass?

The Rorate Mass (pronounced Ro-rah-tay) takes its name from the first words of the Introit (Entrance Antiphon): “Rorate, caeli, desuper, et nubes pluant justum”—“Drop down dew, ye heavens, from above, and let the clouds rain down the Just One.”

This ancient tradition is defined by three unique characteristics:

• Illumination by Candlelight: The Mass begins in total darkness, lit only by the flickering candles held by the faithful and the clergy. There are no electric lights; the warm glow of beeswax symbolizes the “Morning Star,” Mary, who lights the way to her Son.

• The Coming of Dawn: Traditionally, the Mass is timed so that as the liturgy concludes, the first rays of the sun begin to rise. This transition from darkness to light serves as a living metaphor for the Incarnation—the moment Christ, the Sun of Justice, entered the world to dispel the darkness of sin.

• A Marian Tribute: Unlike the usual violet of Advent, the priest wears white vestments, signaling a celebration of Mary’s “Yes” at the Annunciation. It is a moment to meditate on her hidden life as she awaited the first Christmas.

Event Details

• Date: Saturday, December 5, 2026

• Time: 6:30 AM (Shrine doors open at 6:00 AM)

• Location: Shrine Church

• Music: Gregorian Chant and Sacred Polyphony

Note: Because this Mass is celebrated by candlelight, we encourage you to arrive early to find your seat and enter into the silence of the morning. Confessions will be available following the Mass during the regularly scheduled Saturday hours.