A Rorate Caeli Mass is an ancient Advent devotion whereby a Votive Mass of the Blessed Virgin Mary is celebrated by candlelight just before dawn. The interplay of light and darkness speaks to the meaning of Advent and the coming of the Light of the World. The Mass takes its title Rorate Caeli ("Drop down dew, you heavens") from the initial Latin words of Isaiah 45:8. In the dimly lit church, priest and faithful prepare to honor the Light of the World, who is soon to be born, and offer praise to God for the gift of Our Lady. As the Mass proceeds and sunlight approaches, the church becomes progressively brighter, illumined by the sun just as our faith is illumined by Christ. This year we pray for a dawning of peace, overcoming the darkness of violence which shrouds nations and human hearts. All are welcome.