Christ's Mass

A poem on the Nativity. Merry Christmas!

Adoration of the Shepherds by Philippe de Champaigne (1602–1674)

Christ’s Mass

In the darkest and coldest time of the year,

As the festival of lights drew near,

People commemorating the Temple;

From Rome roared the Universal Census,

and all trembled.

A poor husband and a Virgin with child in the “House of Bread”,

Shepherds arrive in awe as they keep their sheep fed:



The brightest hour in history still keeping us warm,

Jesus Christ, The Light of the World is born.

The true Temple now breathes;

Rome roared but Christ decrees: 

On St. Peter’s tomb will His Universal Church faithfully preach.

The Bread of Life enriching our impoverished lot,

The Good Shepherd has come to lead and feed His flock.