Rorate Mass: Candlelit Mass before Dawn
On Friday, December 18, 2026, at 7:00 a.m. in the Crypt Church, please join the Basilica for the celebration of an ancient Advent tradition, the Rorate Mass.
The Rorate Mass, a votive Mass in honor of the Blessed Mother during Advent is an ancient and venerable tradition. It takes its name from the incipit or beginning phrase of the Introit, Rorate Caeli de super (Let the heavens rain it down).
Traditionally, in monasteries and convents, the first Mass of the day is celebrated after Lauds. The Rorate Mass was granted permission centuries ago, to be celebrated before Lauds; before the dawn. People were originally drawn to the Mass, not because of the candlelight, but because as the liturgy progressed, light from the rising sun filtered into the Churches, reminding the faithful of the coming of the Eternal Light.
All are invited to attend this Mass, and to bring candles to light the Crypt Church. For those who cannot attend in person, the Mass will be livestreamed at www.nationalshrine.org/mass.
