This Christmas explore the peaceful side of the festival by experiencing Christmas mass, their epic choir performances, and enchanting decorations at these Churches in Mumbai!
Christmas mass is a tradition that sees Christians gather on Christmas Eve for the celebration of the Mass or Service of Worship in honour of the Nativity of Jesus. The best part about this custom is that anyone can attend Mass in a Church. So, if you want to know what Christmas really feels like, then head to these churches, attend Christmas mass in Mumbai, and enjoy a traditional Christmas experience.
1. Mount Mary Basilica- Bandra
Commonly known as Mount Mary Church, it is a Roman Catholic Basilica located in Bandra and is over a hundred years old. Their masses happen throughout the week at 6 am and 8 pm. During Christmas, their mass becomes even grander, and the road that leads to the church is flanked by small shops offering flowers, candles, and other offerings of worship, adding to the entire Christmassy vibe.
Where: Mt Mary Rd, near Shanti Avedna Sadan, Mount Mary, Bandra West, Mumbai.
2. Wodehouse Church- Colaba
Wodehouse church in Colaba is another one that one must visit for an epic Christmas midnight mass. This decade-old church has Gothic Revival architecture and houses intriguing artworks. Be a part of the crowd and other devotees who gather here for the mass. The Cathedral’s choir usually commences its carol singing after 8.30 PM, and the mass starts between 9 PM to 10 PM.
Where: 19, Nathalal Parikh Marg, Scindia Society, Police Colony, Apollo Bandar, Colaba
3. Church of Our Lady of the Rosary- Goregaon
In 1969, the Parish of Our Lady of the Rosary separated from St. Thomas, and the foundation stone of the Church was laid in 1980. The church structure was fully formed in 1984, and the building was dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary, and its altar consecrated by Archbishop Pimenta. Since then, it's been standing tall, and many activities happen here. Their day Christmas mass is happening on 24th and evening mass on 26th December. Do check the details here as you will have to register yourself for the same.
Where: Cardinal Gracias Nagar, M.G. Road, Goregaon West.
4. St. Thom's Cathedral-Fort
Named in honour of Saint Thomas the Apostle, the cathedral was established in 1718. Its famous arches are a piece of art while its walls lined with sculptures will take you on a historical journey. The church is known for its beauty, uniformity, and neatness. Attending a mass here is definitely a must-do! This year, Christmas Vigil Masses will happen on 24th December at 8.00 pm and 10.00 pm in the Church. Christmas Day Masses at 8.30 a.m and 10.00 a.m and in Tamil at 7.00 a.m.
Where: 3, Veer Nariman Road, Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai.
5. Church of Immaculate Concepcion-Borivali
The Church structure dates back to the fifteenth century and is one of the oldest churches in Mumbai. Over the last two decades, this parish has been involved in liturgical and community activities. Their Christmas Mass this year will happen in two slots- one at 6 p.m. and then at 8.30 p.m. on 24th and 25th December and is all about colours, warmth, and calm.
Where: I C Colony, Mount Poinsur, Borivali West, Mumbai.
6. St. Michael's- Mahim
Built in 1534, St. Michael's is one of the oldest Catholic churches in Mumbai and is popular for the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Novena on Wednesdays. This year their grand Christmas mass is going to happen on the 24th, 26th, and 27th Of December in Hindi, English, and Konkani with carol singing. For more details tap here. Note: Only fully vaccinated people are allowed.
Where: Lady Jamshedji Rd, Mahim West, Mahim.
7. Orlem Church-Malad
Another historical church, Orlem church was built as a private chapel in 1880 and was given the status of a separate parish in 1916. The current structure of the church was built in the late 1970s and it is lined with wooden panels and has a well-ventilated interior. Their Christmas Masses will be celebrated on 24th, 25th, and 26th December in 3 slots in English, Tamil, and Konkani. For more details, tap here.
Where: Orlem, Malad West, Mumbai.
8. Gloria Church-Byculla
Gloria Church is built in Gothic Style structure and is shaped in the form of a Latin Cross with Towers. It was built in 1911-13 and is a well-maintained place where one can sit and pray peacefully. Their daily masses happen on Saturdays ( 3 slots), and Sundays (4 slots), and you can join them during Christmas too.
Where: Sant Savata Marg, Byculla.
9. St Peter's-Bandra
This 160-year-old parish in Mumbai has been designed in the Romanesque style and houses a life-size marble statue of Christ bearing the inscription I am the Resurrection and the Life. Their masses happen throughout the week at around 6 a.m. and then at 7.30 p.m. and are even live-streamed. But, we'll suggest you go there and witness its beauty as it's a must-visit for attending Christmas mass in Mumbai.
Where: Hill Rd, Ranwar, Bandra West, Mumbai.
Also Read: Christmas 2020: Plum cakes from these Mumbai places will bake you crazy!
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