Rorate

"Drop down dew, ye heavens, from above, and let the clouds rain the just, let the earth be opened and send forth a Savior."

These poetic words of longing from the Introit of the Votive Mass of the Blessed Virgin Mary characterize the Advent desires of our hearts, yearning for the coming of the Messiah. On Saturday, illuminated only by candlelight, the Sisters and parishioners of the Cathedral of St. Eugene joined their hearts with the prayers of the whole Church in longing anticipation for the coming of Christ.

The Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter beautifully explains the symbolism of this Mass: ​

​In the dimly lit setting, priests 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 sunrise approaches, the church becomes progressively brighter, illumined by the sun as our Faith is illumined by Christ.

Divine Infant King Jesus, come down into our hearts!

“There is no exercise which is more pleasing to God, or more meritorious, or which has greater influence in infusing solid piety into the soul, than the assisting at the holy sacrifice of the Mass. If this be true at all the various seasons of the Christian year, it is so, in a very special manner, during the holy time of Advent. The faithful, therefore, should make every effort in order to enjoy this precious blessing, even on those days when they are not obliged to it by the precept of the Church.” - Dom Gueranger