Many priests choose to take the Gospel passage for Christmas Day Mass from either the Midnight Mass or from one of the other options; anything but the one actually designated for the Mass during the Day. This is because we're supposed to hear the Prologue of the Gospel according to John. It's a beautiful piece of poetry, which is also a dense theological reflection on the Incarnation. There aren't any shepherds, stars or Magi mentioned, never mind the Holy Family. It can be confusing to people, and a chore for the preacher to have to expound on. Add to that, he probably had to preach the night before, and it can be challenging enough to prepare an engaging, prayerful homily during such a hectic week, let alone trying to prepare two. I'm one of those stubborn ones who does proclaim the Prologue when I celebrate Christmas Day Mass. The other passages tell us what happened, John tells us what it means, and it shouldn't be passed by too lightly.
For those of you who will hear the Prologue, here's a video from a few years back from Bishop Barron to help you prepare. For those who won't, at least you'll know what you're missing.
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