Midnight Mass

[HotelRedFace]

Re-posting from chat as I have only just found this section...

We are staying with friends for Christmas and they have just asked us if we would like to attend midnite mass with them. I haven't set foot in a church since I was 10 but have to admit I am not totally adverse to the idea although I do feel a little uncertain.

They are CofE and I understand that the church they attend is known as a "High Church" but beyond that I know nothing about this subject. Can anyone tell me what the service is likely to be like? Do I have to dress up? Am I likely to feel really out of place and uncomfortable?

The service I attended a few years ago was very relaxed and quiet, and no one was really very dressed up. The offered communion wafer/wine but not everyone went to take it. It was a lovely way of welcoming in Christmas Day.

No need to dress up particulary, I'm sure no-one will worry about what you wear but you might feel more comfortable in something that is smart/casual rather than scruffy jeans and T-shirt. I expect it will be a Holy Communion service which means that some wine and bread will be blessed by the priest and the congregation will be invited to go to the front of the church and take a sip of wine, the bread is usually a small circular wafer and everyone is given one to eat. It is usual that only people who have been confirmed (a special service where you confirm you belief, you would know if you have been confirmed) take communion but other people can either go to the front just for a blessing from the priest or stay in their seats, whichever you feel most comfortable with.
The high church bit means that the style of service is closer to catholic churches than some C of E churches. This means that there may be a bit more ceremony, possibly a choir and the priest will sing parts of the service which might be spoken in a low church.
Hopefully you will be put at your ease and everyone will be welcoming. In my church, which is more low church, we expect a few people at Christmas who might not be use to attending regulary and everyone makes an effort to make sure they feel confortable and know what's happening. I hope it goes well.

Thank you. It sounds really enjoyable and I'm going to attend. I've found myself drawn to seeking a more peaceful Christmas this year. I can't really explain it but I feel like I need something "different" and a bit "deeper" so perhaps this might be where I find it for this year.

I hope it goes well and you find what your looking for. Happy Christmas