January 1 is a holyday of obligation honoring the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God. Every year on the vigil of the New Year, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, located in the heart of "Mummerland," celebrates what is commonly called the "Mummers' Mass." It is a traditional mass that exemplifies the unique spirit of the parish, both church and community, by celebrating and worshiping together and asking for God's continued blessings for the New Year.

This Traditional Mummers' Mass will be celebrated on:

Thursday, December 31, 1998
5:00 p.m.
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church
3rd and Wolf Streets
South Philadelphia

The celebrant will be Reverend Robert T. Feeney, Parochial Vicar. Returning to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel to concelebrate the Mass will be many priests who formerly served at the parish, including Reverend Edward J. Hallinan, who initiated this tradition ten years ago. Mummers from the four parade divisions will participate in the liturgy as lectors and gift bearers. Music will be provided by the Mummers Choir and representatives from the various string bands.


In planning the Liturgy, the four divisions of the Parade are symbolized: an umbrella (Comics), a banjo (String Bands), golden slippers (Fancy) and a Mummer Doll (Brigades).



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Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747