ROCHESTER, N.Y. — As Christians come together during this time to celebrate the birth of their savior, Christmas Mass looks different this year because of COVID-19 pandemic.

What You Need To Know

  • Church faces COVID-19 restrictions during Christmas
  • People still encouraged to celebrate and honor the life their savior, Jesus Christ
  • Church encourages people to still have hope during these hard times
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“Well, obviously wearing masks, the social distancing was a little different for us, but at the same time it’s very much the same, we’re celebrating the birth of our savior, it’s a special event for Christians everywhere,” said Tony Monaco, of Rochester.

Service at Holy Apostles Church in Rochester included people from the congregation joining in to sing a number of Christmas hymns.

“It’s a special event for Christians everywhere and we remember that Jesus was born in very humbled circumstances, and so the small sacrifices of wearing a mask is really compared to his birth,” said Monaco.

Unlike past years, the church also saw less people because of because of COVID-19 guidelines.

Rev. Anthony “Father Tony” Mugavero, pastor of Holy Apostles Church, said, “The capacity is a big difference, we’re probably about at least four times least than what we would have been, this church would have been filled, you know it could have been filled 500, 600 people.”

‘Father Tony’ says the feel is also a little different this year with Christmas Eve Mass. “There is a little bit more of a subdued environment in the sense that you know you can’t be able to be as expressive and demonstrative in a time like this where Christmas is such a great celebration.”

With restrictions in place, people still enjoyed service and are happy they’re able to have Mass in-person for Christmas this year.

Tony Monaco said, “It’s just such an important part of our faith and that being able to gather with fellow Catholics, fellow Christians and celebrate the Eucharist is really what it’s all about.”

Despite the challenges, many people are facing during the holidays and pandemic, there was a message for hope from the service.

“Father Tony,” Mugavero said “God is with you and do not be afraid, and that this will end...”

Monaco added, “Jesus gives us hope, that was what his birth was all about, so it’s a difficult time, but we remember he came to bring us — he’s the light of the world and we have to remember that.”