| One of the most significant aspects of Christmas | | | | for individuals like the elderly who would prefer a |
| Eve is religious in nature. Attending Midnight Mass | | | | service that is earlier than Midnight Mass. |
| or earlier church services is mandatory for many | | | | The day before Christmas is filled with a mixture |
| Christians. This is even so for people who aren't | | | | of anxiety and anticipation in most families. |
| regular attendants at church during the rest of | | | | There's anxiety at putting all the final plans and |
| the year. Evidence of the importance of | | | | finishing decoration touches in place and getting all |
| Christmas church services can be seen in the | | | | the necessary shopping done. There's also much |
| overflow of congregations at the churches. | | | | anticipation about all the merriment and |
| Many churches also have an added service earlier | | | | excitement of Christmas day. |
| in the evening to accommodate the 'extras', and | | | | |