Each year on 17th December the Pluscarden community has a special and traditional celebration of "O Sapientia". By the light of candles, and warmed by a log fire, the community sings the Vespers Antiphon addressed to Christ as Divine Wisdom; also the Carol "Shepherds in the fields abiding". As well as other prayers, there is free conversation among the brethren, and a mazer of warm punch is passed around, warm mince pies are consumed, and hot coffee drunk. It's a most pleasant and monastic start to the final run-down to Christmas.