Christmas Vigil Mass at St. Leonard’s Church, Naremburn – 24 December 2025

On the evening of 24 December 2025, St. Leonard’s Church in Naremburn was alive with warmth, colour, and joyful anticipation as the parish gathered for the Christmas Vigil Mass. The church was truly filled to the rafters, with families arriving early to secure seats, especially those whose children were part of the much-loved Nativity play. There was a palpable sense of excitement in the air, the kind that only Christmas Eve can bring, as voices, laughter, and quiet moments of prayer blended into a beautiful tapestry of community.

The highlight for many was the Nativity play, lovingly prepared by Jules Leitao and Natalie Wood, and presented by the children of the parish. Dressed as angels, shepherds, kings, and the Holy Family, they retold the timeless story of Christ’s birth with sincerity and joy. Their presence reminded everyone that Christmas is not only something we remember, but something we participate in together, across generations.

In his homily, Fr. Roger warmly thanked the children for sharing their gifts and courage by taking part in the play. He spoke with deep appreciation for the families who supported them and for the wider parish community that embraced the moment so wholeheartedly. Drawing on the Gospel proclamation, Fr. Roger highlighted the enduring message of the angels, a message he noted we still need today: “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy.”

He acknowledged that for many, this season can be marked not only by celebration but also by worry, tiredness, or quiet burdens carried in the heart. Christmas, he reminded the congregation, does not promise a life free of struggle. Instead, it proclaims a God who chooses to step into our lives not when everything is perfect, but right in the midst of our ordinary, complicated, and imperfect moments. Even when the world feels uncertain, God remains close. Even when darkness seems hard to understand, His light continues to shine gently, persistently, and faithfully.

The liturgy was beautifully enhanced by Christmas hymns and music performed by a combined choir from SPN and STL Churches, conducted by Lynda Lee. Their voices lifted familiar carols into moments of shared prayer and praise, helping to create an atmosphere that was both reverent and joyful.

Following the Mass, the celebration continued in the church courtyard with a generous and sumptuous spread. Under a pleasant summer evening sky, parishioners lingered to enjoy the food, the weather, and, most importantly, one another’s company. Conversations flowed easily, stories were shared, and laughter echoed as strangers became friends and friends felt like family.

The Christmas Vigil Mass at St. Leonard’s was more than a liturgical celebration; it was a living expression of parish life, a reminder that Christmas is about presence: God’s presence among us, and our presence to one another. As one big family, the community left renewed, carrying the angels’ message of hope and joy into the days ahead.