Midnight Mass Tips for Parents with Young Children

Midnight mass is the first mass, in some places still held at midnight to announce the message : "Jesus Christ is born and peace and goodwill to all mankind". Midnight mass, called in most predominantly Catholic countries as "Misa de Gallo" may not be held exactly at midnight but sometimes at about the 10 pm or even 9 pm. The Midnight mass is a main family affair and the kids are usually excited about attending this because most of the Churches have the most glorious Nativity Scenes and an array of Christmas lights. Some Churches even have a fireworks display after the mass as a sign of celebration.

Waiting for the midnight mass is usually difficult, particularly if the kids are uppity about meeting their friends in Church and getting their Christmas candies and goodies from other families at Church. This is also an even when they're excited to wear their new Christmas clothes and shoes which they're usually proud of to show off to other kids. It is also a time when families meet after the mass to exchange presents or sweet dishes and wish each other a Merry Christmas. If you are a parent at home and it seems difficult to clam your kids fro all the excitement. Thus before the Christmas mass, you can ask your kids to help you in the kitchen by preparing your giveaway pies and sweets and asking them to do the gift-wrapping. Little tasks such as gift wrapping, helping you in the kitchen, fixing the Christmas tree or coloring little gift cards are activities the kids enjoy while waiting to leave for Church.

Make sure however that their dresses and shoes are suited for the spirit of the season. Clothes for toddlers and kids should not be as casual as in night party clothes. Nor should they be spunky or sporty. The best Christmas dress for kids are those that are comfortable but elegant enough for the season. Remember that you and your family are going to Church and there is no room for what others may consider as "immodest" when attending the Midnight mass. This is particularly difficult of you have teens who want to show they're sexy. Denims that expose too much of the back (and underwear) are a NO-NO. It also isn't nice to to wear very short tops which show part of the stomach no matter how thin that "attractive "waist may be. The best thing for your teens and kids to wear during Midnight Mass is still the dress and skirt or a full dress that is simple but elegant. If the winter seems biting in your area, you may also consider purchasing some tailored-looking coats before the shopping season so that you get it for a much lower price. There are also kiddie leather boots that go well with these coats that are sold in most shops. If you can do your shopping long before the Christmas Holidays, you could probably get them for almost 40% off the price.

If you are a parent make sure that you also get dressed properly for the occasion. A classic elegant dress need not be expensive. There are tailored dresses that are great for Church wear which are available in some shops and online stores. Coats are a must if you have extremely cold winters. If you happen to be a father, you may use your usual Church attire but a touch of "something new" like a new colorful necktie can complete your Midnight Mass wear.

Some families have their Christmas dinner after the mass. If this is the tradition in your area, you should be prepared and shop for your Midnight Mass meal. This usually consists of Turkey or Ham as the main dish, special sweet dishes, cakes, and chestnuts. In most Spanish speaking countries this special late dinner is called "Noche Buena" or The Good Night. So as not to be stressed during the after- Midnight mass celebrations, shop for your ham and turkey early, or better still, buy the smoked ones. This will cut your cooking time in the kitchen and give you more time to relax during the season. Smoked turkey and Ham can be delicious if you can figure out the proper sauce or topping like mushrooms and gravy, cranberry and mint, or whatever your family preference may be. This meal is usually a part of most family traditions particularly if you are Catholic or Orthrodox. It is typical that the meal be a huge meal marking the celebration of the birth of the Saviour. If course, for the adults, you may have your champagne to complete your family celebration.

Preparing you and your kids for Midnight mass isn't difficult if you make a list and shop early.Make sure that every kid has the most comfortable suit for the season.You can do yourself a huge favor by opting to buy smoked Turkey or Ham, ready made Cakes and sweets. It is worth NOT stressing yourself on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Instead, have an excellent celebration without having too much worries -- after all -- peace is the message of the season and peace always starts from within.