the building rises in a conical form and has a capacity of over 20,000 people standing. one of the cathedral's main features are the enormous stained glass windows, which are almost 65 meters from top to bottom. the metropolitan archbishop of rio de janeiro, orani tempesta, conducts the service with the assistance of the pastor of the cathedral, monsignor aroldo. each year the theme of the service changes slightly but emphasis is always put on the importance of gathering friends and family together. children, adults, and seniors of all ages are welcome to celebrate the birth of jesus christ and the christmas mass usually starts at 20:00.
