Archbishop Cupich keeps holiday tradition alive

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Wednesday night's midnight Mass at Holy Name Cathedral will be the first celebrated by Archbishop Blase Cupich since becoming the leader of Chicago's Catholic community.

Many Chicago-area Christians celebrating the biblical account of the birth of Jesus at churches around the area this evening as well.

Earlier, Cupich kept a holiday tradition when he spent part of this Christmas Eve visiting children who cannot be home for the holiday.

Cupich prayed with the young patients, their families and caregivers at Children's Lurie Hospital with a personal touch for those with challenges that warmed hearts throughout the institution, no matter their background.

The new archbishop's message reflects the pope's focus on pastoral responsibilities and it was welcome.

"It opens up areas in your heart that maybe you don't visit all the time and it is good to have that done in a season like to really appreciate the great contribution that kids make to our lives," Cupich said.

"We are all connected. It is just nice to have as many people you know, kind of rooting for you," said Steve Harvey, whose 1-year-old daughter Blue Harvey received a visit from Cupich.

Some of the kids will be getting home in time for Christmas; others will be staying and as they have for a long time, getting a lot of love and care.