Pasterka facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Pasterka, the Midnight Mass |
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Pasterka celebrated in Aleksandrów Łódzki, 2009
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| Classification | Catholic Church |
| Theology | New Testament |
| Region | Poland |
| Other name(s) | Shepherds' Mass |
Pasterka is a special church service, called a Midnight Mass, celebrated by Catholics in Poland during Christmas. It happens late on Christmas Eve, between December 24th and 25th. The name "Pasterka" means "Shepherds' Mass" in Polish. This name reminds us of the Biblical shepherds who were told by an angel about Jesus' birth. During Pasterka, people in Poland love to sing traditional Christmas songs called kolędy, which are like Christmas carols. It's a very joyful time!
Celebrating Pasterka
Even though Pasterka is called a "Midnight Mass," it doesn't always have to be exactly at midnight. The important part is the special prayers and Bible readings used during the Christmas celebration. A priest can hold Pasterka more than once on December 24th. They might have it in the main church and also in a smaller chapel nearby.
Often, there are a few Pasterka services. An earlier one might be for families with young children. Later, around 9 or 10 p.m., there might be another service for teenagers and young adults. The main Pasterka, the one that starts at 12:00 midnight, is usually for adults.
For Catholics, it's important to attend a service celebrating the Birth of Jesus. They can choose to go to any of the evening masses, or even more than one! Priests might call all of these services "Pasterka." However, the official name for the earlier evening services is Wigilia masses, while the grand service at midnight is the main Pasterka.
The exact time Jesus was born isn't written in the Bible. This means people can choose the best time for their special prayer service. On Christmas Eve (December 24th) and Christmas Day, services can use different prayers and readings.
There are no church services late in the afternoon on December 24th. This time is for Wigilia, which is a traditional family supper at home. The first evening service on Christmas Eve (after Wigilia) usually starts around 4 p.m. or later, before 8 p.m. Then there might be a 10 p.m. service. The main Midnight Mass begins at 12:00 a.m. and lasts about an hour. Music for the Midnight Mass often starts around 11:00 p.m.
Before or after the sermon, priests might bless the Szopka, which are beautiful nativity scenes set up near the main altar. The service usually ends with a special blessing from the priest. On Christmas Day, the services continue with an early morning mass and then daytime masses.
Pasterka is a very important Catholic service in Poland. It is strongly connected with Christmas celebrations. Many Catholics go to church twice during this time, and priests often encourage them to do so.
See also
- Polish Christmas carol Bóg się rodzi (God Is Born)
- Christmas traditions around the world
