21 days to Christmas--mass time

Mass time, 5 by 7 watercolor

Sunday. 21 days to Christmas--"Christ mass."
While the intricate liturgy and practice is foreign to me, its tradition and deep meaning to millions of people around the world commands my respect.
The word "mass" itself tells much about the season and day. Old English "mæsse" was derived from   from Latin "missa," which was in use by the Sixth Century, meaning a "sending, a dismissal" "sending toward God. Other older origins are possible, from Hebrew and Greek words meaning "unleavened bread" or "initiation," respectively. All seem appropriate. 
In this hectic, commercial season, it helps to slow down and think about "Christ mass," and on a Sunday, about "going to mass."