Christmas celebrations take different turn in era of coronavirus

Coronavirus has led to Christmas in 2020 taking on a different appearance around the world – from subdued scenes in Bethlehem to an early start to Midnight Mass. A strict lockdown dampened celebrations in the traditional birthplace of Jesus in the West Bank with few worshippers on hand to see marching bands. And the absence of the faithful was also seen in the Holy Land, where Christmas vigil Mass in St Peter’s Basilica was held at 7.30pm to ensure compliance with Italy’s 10pm curfew. Midnight Mass started as early as a couple hours...