RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Christians across the Triangle headed to Christmas Eve mass on Wednesday night to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.
Hundreds of families attended mass at the Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral in Raleigh.
Virginia Tarbox attended mass with her granddaughter, Kaitlyn Neuman. Tarbox shared what she prayed for next year on Christmas.
"I was usually praying for my family and for their health and welfare," she said. "We're just looking for peace and this divisiveness in this country and just have our young people start to realize what's going on."
Jay Taylor says holy days like Christmas are about sharing the power of prayer and faith.
"When good things happen, thank God. When bad things happen, ask Jesus for help," he said. "If you will give God a chance, He'll help you."
Neuman says her faith is something that keeps her strong, and says others could find comfort in prayer as well.
"I think he is one we look to in times of hurt, in times of pain. And I think just keeping him in the forefront of our mind is what's going to get us through the tough times in our country right now and we're in a tough spot," she said. "I think we all need to keep our eyes towards him."