After 38 years as a priest and preacher in many different pulpits, Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., told faithful in Trenton’s St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral on Christmas Eve that “it can be a bit of a challenge” to proclaim the glad tidings of the Birth of Christ in a new way every year.

But even though it’s a story that never changes, it’s a story that can’t be silenced, he said. For it unfolds in a sweep of joyous details: the journey to Bethlehem, the manger, Mary, Joseph, the animals, the shepherds, the star, the Child. The message of the truth of that night: “God’s Word became flesh and has dwelt among us … and we have seen his glory.”

Photo Gallery: Bishop celebrates Christmas Eve Mass in Trenton's Cathedral

Photo Gallery: Midnight Mass in Princeton with Bishop O'Connell

The more this message is heard, the more meaningful and important it becomes, he said, especially in difficult times. For it assures the faithful that there is no need to fear because “God sent his son so he could redeem us.”

Bishop O’Connell, who was the principal celebrant of the Mass, was joined by concelebrating priests Msgr. Joseph L. Roldan, Cathedral rector, Father Neiser Cardenas, parochial vicar, and Msgr. John K. Dermond, a retired priest of the Diocese and former Cathedral rector.

A few hours later, the Bishop celebrated Midnight Mass in St. Paul Church, Princeton, with Msgr. Joseph Rosie, pastor, and Father Miguel Valle, parochial vicar, concelebrating. Parochial Vicar Father Carlo Calisin served as the Bishop's Master of Ceremonies. On Christmas morning, the Bishop celebrated Mass for inmates in New Jersey State Prison.

Throughout the weeks of Advent, the Bishop said, the message came through loud and clear from heavenly messengers to Mary, to Joseph, to the Shepherds: “Do not be afraid.”

“My dear sisters and brothers, maybe the angels of old are speaking to us now in whatever the particular circumstances of our lives and world may be – listen to the angels as they whisper and sing and shout, ‘do not be afraid.’ … Proclaim with the angels, ‘Glory to God in the highest and peace to those on whom his favor rests’ … have faith because his favor rests on you! Merry Christmas!’’

O Holy Night

The Bishop’s Christmas greetings were met and returned with warm welcomes from those present, including many children who seemed captivated by the atmosphere, music and candlelight.

As the liturgy began, the candlelight cast a soft glow as a statue of the Infant Jesus was carried to the nearly life-sized Nativity scene, where he was placed in the crib by Msgr. Roldan. Bishop O’Connell blessed and incensed the manger.

Looking on were scores of members of the Cathedral parish and faithful from neighboring parishes and beyond. Many said that Mass on Christmas Eve is a long-standing tradition that spans generations.

That was the case for the Seigfried family who worships in Mary, Mother of the Church Parish, Bordentown and St. Michael Church, Trenton, which is part of St. Ann Parish, Lawrenceville. Nine members of three generations settled in the middle of the vast church to get a good view of the Mass and the rows of poinsettias and sparkling Christmas trees.

“The Cathedral is a beautiful church,” said Michele Seigfried, who attends every Christmas Eve with her husband, Mick, and daughter, Madison, 7 and family members. “My mother, Barbara Auletta, went to Cathedral High School, and it was a family tradition. We love the Nativity. Even though we don’t come regularly, when we do, it’s like coming home.”

Cathedral parishioner Mechelle Delli attended the Mass with her husband, John, and son, Chad Nelson.

“Our excitement about being here tonight is that the Bishop was coming,” she said. “I especially appreciated what the Bishop had to say about not being afraid in these times because Jesus is with us.”

Throughout the Mass, soaring sounds of the choir and musicians filled the air with many familiar carols including “O Come All Ye Faithful,” “O Holy Night” and “What Child is This.” Among the choristers was soprano soloist Tina Fernades.

Her sister, Andrea Wilson, and her family were there to offer support. Members of Mary, Mother of the Church Parish, the Wilsons are often at the Cathedral. The music is wonderful, they said.

“And we love the stained glass windows and the Nativity. It’s the biggest, most beautiful Nativity I’ve ever seen,” Andrea Wilson said.