Archbishop Richard G. Henning led Christmas Mass at Cathedral of the Holy Cross in the South End on Thursday.

Archbishop Richard G. Henning during his sermon on Christmas Day. (Stuart Cahill/Boston Herald)
The faithful applaud after mass is concluded at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross on Christmas. (Stuart Cahill/Boston Herald)

Earlier this week, the Archdiocese of Boston posted Henning’s Christmas message: “This Christmas season, Archbishop Henning reminds us of the true gift of Christmas: that we are deeply loved. No matter our circumstances, the Lord draws us close, inviting us to hear the heartbeat of the One who has given everything for us.”

Christmas Mass is celebrated at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross. (Stuart Cahill/Boston Herald)
Archbishop Richard G. Henning blesses the faithful on Christmas Day. (Stuart Cahill/Boston Herald)