We're arriving in Rome on Christmas Eve and need recommendations for a good church to attend Christmas Mass. We're staying away from the crowds at the Vatican, which require tickets anyway. Anyone have any ideas?
Katie,
We have stayed in Roma and elsewhere in Italy for Christmas season many times and MOST of the large and many small Roman churches have special programs. For example, Santa Maria Maggiore (close to Termini) one year had Pavorotti singing FOR FREE. Obviously these require that you prepare early, etc, but they are especially meaningful. Also try the other big churches in Roma, most of whom have websites.
cml
The Pantheon is also a church. Attend mass there or at Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, right by the Pantheon. Mass at either church is beautiful.
Santa Susanna is the home of the American Catholic church in Rome. We've gone to Mass there several times during our visits to Rome. The Mass is in English and the community is very welcoming. You may be looking for a more Italian experience but if not, Santa Susanna would be a great place to attend Christmas Mass.