The week ahead

Midnight Mass at St Peter’s Basilica will take place on December 24 at 9:15pm. Celebrated by Pope Francis, it usually attracts a congregation of around 15,000 people. Tickets are free but should be applied for in advance as they are in high demand. Alternatively, you can watch a live televised version from St Peter’s Square or follow it online.

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On New Year’s Eve, the First Vespers of the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God will take place in St Peter’s Basilica at 5pm, followed by Exposition, the singing of Te Deum and Benediction. New Year’s Day Mass will take place at 10am.

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BBC One will be broadcasting Mass on Christmas Day, live from St Joseph’s Church in Bradford at 10am. Bishop Marcus Stock of Leeds will preach. On Sunday December 22, the second of two episodes of Britain’s Christmas Story (also BBC One, 9.05pm) will explore the history of Christmas since the 17th century.