The Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ

December 25

The Nativity of the Lord (Christmas) is a Holy Day of Obligation celebrated on December 25. The Christmas season celebrates the birth of Jesus, his manifestation to the world, and His baptism. The season includes: 

Feast of the Holy Innocents
Since the sixth century, on December 28, the Church has celebrated the memory of those children killed because of Herod's rage against Christ (cf. Mt 2:16-17). Liturgical tradition refers to them as the "Holy Innocents" and regards them as martyrs.

Solemnity of Mary
This feast is the octave of Christmas. It is fitting to honor Mary as Mother of Jesus, following the birth of Christ. When Catholics celebrate the Solemnity of Mary Mother of God we are not only honoring Mary, who was chosen among all women throughout history to bear God incarnate, but we are also honoring our Lord, who is fully God and fully human.

Feast of the Epiphany
This feast celebrates the epiphany (manifestation) of Christ to the Gentiles, symbolized by Christ's manifestation to the Magi (Wise Men). The wise men followed the star to Bethlehem of Judea, and to Jesus' dwelling there. Having arrived, they worshipped the infant Jesus, and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.  In addition, other manifestations of Christ were often commemorated during Epiphany, including the miracle at Cana.

Feast of the Holy Name of Jesus
After He is circumcised, Jesus is named and becomes a part of the Holy Family.  This feast is celebrated on the second Sunday after Epiphany. 

Baptism of Our Lord
The Solemnity of the Baptism of Our Lord brings to an end the season of Christmas. The Church recalls Our Lord's second manifestation or epiphany which occurred on the occasion of His baptism in the Jordan.