What is a Rorate Caeli Mass?
A Rorate Caeli Mass is a traditional Catholic liturgy celebrated just before dawn in Advent as a devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Mass is only lit by candles, symbolizing Mary's role in bringing the Light of the World into the darkness of the world. It is a Votive Mass in honor of the Virgin Mary for the season of Advent and has a long tradition in the Catholic Church, especially in German-speaking areas. The name "Rorate Caeli" comes from the opening words of the Introit, which are from Isaiah 45:8. The Mass is most often celebrated in communities devoted to the Extraordinary Form of the Roman Rite, also known as the "Latin Mass"[1][2][3].
The Rorate Caeli Mass is characterized by its unique setting, being illuminated only by candlelight, and the use of white vestments instead of Advent violet, as it is a votive Mass in Mary's honor. The early timing of the Mass, the interplay of light and darkness, and the rich symbolism associated with this tradition all contribute to its beauty and significance in the Advent season[2][4].
Citations:
[1] https://championshrine.org/rorate-caeli-mass/
[2] https://onepeterfive.com/rorate-caeli-mass-advent-tradition-honoring-lady/
[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rorate_caeli
[4] https://fssp.com/rorate-caeli-masses/
[5] https://www.philipkosloski.com/the-beauty-of-a-forgotten-advent-tradition-the-rorate-mass/
