Upcoming Advent Basilica Events during the Dec. 13-14, 2025 Weekend: Bambinelli Sunday; Christmas Tree Lighting and Lessons & Carols

During the seasons of Advent and Christmas, many Catholics display the Nativity scene in our homes. Depicting the birth of Christ in the form of a Nativity scene owes its origin to Saint Francis of Assisi, who made the first one on Christmas Eve in 1223 as a reminder to all of the humble birth of Christ.

Saint Pope John Paul II began the tradition of Bambinelli Sunday during his papacy to remind families about the glorious event of Baby Jesus’ arrival, our Savior, the Redeemer of the world, the Word made Flesh. He encouraged the children of Rome to bring the Baby Jesus (Bambinelli) from their Nativity sets to Saint Peter’s Square to be blessed by him after his Sunday Angelus address. The Popes after him have continued to do the blessing, as well.

To participate in this tradition, please bring the Infant Jesus from your family Christmas crèche for a special blessing at all the Sunday Masses, December 14, including the 5 p.m. Vigil Mass on Saturday, December 13. December 14 is also known as Gaudete Sunday. Gaudete is Latin for “rejoice,” which comes from the Entrance Antiphon for the Masses on that day: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I say, Rejoice. Indeed, the Lord is near.”

Please note that the Christmas Tree Lighting will take place in the Basilica courtyard at 314 Duke Street on December 14, following the 5 p.m. Mass. Then, afterward, on the same evening, at 7 p.m., in the Basilica church, the Basilica’s Schola Cantorum, the Basilica School of Saint Mary’s School Choir and the Basilica Choristers will perform “Lessons and Carols.” All are invited.