Christians around the world will soon be gathering to celebrate the birth of Christ. On Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, many families traditionally attend a holiday service or mass. Local places of worship will host candlelight masses, midnight masses and special family masses, where the Nativity story will be shared.

Looking for something to do this weekend? We've taken a look at our calendars and picked five local events that will make your weekend more enjoyable, educational or worthwhile:

St. Patrick Church Lake Forest will host a Parish Mission, beginning Sun., Jan. 11 through Jan. 13, 7-9 pm in the Main Church, 950 W. Everett Rd., Lake Forest. Fr. Bill Burton, OFM, a theologian and scholar, will present “The Table Fellowship of Jesus and the Bible.” For further information contact Brett Swearingen, Pastoral Associate, 847-234-1401, ext. 204. www.stpatrick-lakeforest.org

On the road to success!

This year’s Jewish Festival of Lights, celebrating the rededication of the Second Temple at the time of the Maccabee rebellion, begins at sundown on Dec. 21.

St. Patrick Church Lake Forest will present the second annual “Live Nativity” on Sat., Dec. 20th at 6 pm outside the Main Church off Everett and Waukegan Road. Teens from the youth ministry program will portray the figures and live animals will also be a part of the “Live Nativity”. Visitors are invited to sing Christmas carols around the Nativity and partake in hot chocolate and cookies. For information contact Jo Ann Bednar, Communications Coordinator, 847-234-1401, ext. 208. www.stpatrick-lakeforest.org