December 8, 2015: Presentation of Neapolitan Presepio: Nativity of Mercy
Location: Shrine Church of the Most Precious Blood

113 Baxter Street, New York, New York 10013

Description: Join us for The Blessing of the 'Presepio' and the beginning of the Holy Year of Mercy. The Shrine Church of the Most Precious Blood presents a traditional Neapolitan nativity scene, 'presepio' crafted in Naples and inspired by the Italian painter Caravaggio's 'Seven Acts of Mercy.' The blessing will be followed by a special Mass, tree lighting, songs and music:

6:15 PM - Blessing of the Presepio: Nativity of Mercy
6:30 PM - Mass: Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, Bishop John O'Hara, Celebrant
7:30 PM - Lighting of Courtyard Trees
Songs and music in anticipation of Christmas
Reception to follow

December 13, 2015: The Opening of the Holy Doors of Mercy
Locations: Basilica of Old Saint Patrick's Cathedral, the corner of Mott and Prince Streets

and the Shrine Church of the Most Precious Blood, 113 Baxter Street

Description: The opening of the Holy Doors of Mercy with the offer of indulgences and blessings for pilgrims begins at St. Patrick's Old Cathedral.

His Holiness Pope Francis has declared an Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy which in the Roman Catholic calendar is from the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8, 2015 to the Feast of Christ the King on November 20, 2016. The year will be a special holy year of remission of sins and universal pardon, focusing particularly on God's forgiveness and mercy.

12:45 PM - Mass with Bishop O'Hara at Basilica of Old Saint Patrick's Cathedral
2:00 PM - Procession down Mott Street to the Shrine Church of the Most Precious Blood
2:45 PM - Opening of The Holy Doors
Reception to follow