Vatican City (Fides Service) - The Office for Papal Liturgical Celebrations today issued a notice signed by Archbishop Piero Marini, Maestro of Liturgical Celerbations to Pope John Paul II, with regard to Religious Services presided by Pope John Paul II over Christmas.
CHRISTMAS EVE Wednesday 24 December at mid-night the Pope will celebrate Midnight Mass in St Peter’s Basilica..
CHRISTMAS DAY Thursday 25 December at 12noon the Pope will deliver his Christmas Message and give his Urbi et Orbi Blessing from the central balcony of St Peter’s Basilica.
NEW YEAR’S EVE, Wednesday 31 December in St Peter’s Basilica at 6pm the Pope will preside First Vespers for the Thursday 1 January 2004, at 10 am in St Peter’s Basilica the Pope will preside the Solemn Mass for the Solemnity of Mary Mother of God and the traditional "Te Deum" of thanksgiving at the end of the civil year.
NEW YEAR’S DAY, Thursday 1 January 2004, at 10 am in St Peter’s Basilica the Pope will preside Mass for the Solemnity of Mary Mother of God and the Church’s 37th World Day for Prayer for Peace on the theme: "An ever Timely Commitment: Teaching Peace". The Mass will be celebrated by Cardinal Angelo Sodano, Secretary of State. (S.L.) (Fides Service 18/12/2003 - lines 16; words 192)