…In which Catholics and other friends from around the world share their church-going experiences this past weekend. Let’s break 100 comments on this one!

Standard format is to name general geographical location, at least, and if you really want, the name of the particular church. Our focus is on homily and music, but of course, this week, there might be other matters to share.

We attended the 9:15 Mass at the local traditionally German ethnic parish, which is pretty much our favorite because the church is beautiful, kept up with pride and historical awareness by the pastor, who also maintains the Cathedral museum, and the liturgy just…is. Everyone there, from priest to musicians, is present to serve God through the liturgy, and to refrain from imposing their egos, self or agendas on the goings-on.

The church was beautifully decorated in rich reds and golds. Very nice. Creche over to the right – good-sized, and able to keep Joseph’s attention for maybe 6 seconds. Which is good. Christmas carols were the hymns, with a solo of O Holy Night. Homily was brief, and, as usual from our seats, sort of hard to hear, but I did pick up him saying that it is hard, especially in a year of such disasters as this (and our own local tragedies of the quadruple-murder and the murder of Alejandra) to think of the Nativity without thinking of Good Friday and the Resurrection.

As I walked out, I thought, rather grumpily, that I think that there are other ways to celebrate this feast musically other than Christmas carols, and then I thought of how you people would accuse me of being too negative if I mentioned it, so I decided I wouldn’t mention it. But here – I mentioned it. I know everyone loves singing the carols and that’s fine. But just…one…that isn’t a carol? One of the medieval or renaissance hymns that are on my CD player during this season? At offertory, maybe? Once?

The homily I thought about the most today was the Pope’s. Over and over, of his striking words about how God comes to us as a baby, so that we will find loving him irresistible…

Update: Those of you who are still up for commenting might note whether there was a)incense and b)kneeling during the mention of the Incarnation during the Creed at the Mass you attended. Just for the curious…(Yes to both for us)

And do check out The Roamin’ Roman’s report from St. Peter’s!

Do come back throughout the day and read the comments…a homeless shelter in Alaska, a parish in China..children, simplicity, smells and bells…Christmas around the world!