Midnight Mass - Pasterka
The Wilia takes on a religious significance when viewed in the light that it is a preparation for the Pasterka or Midnight Mass.  Regardless of weather conditions, every Pole who is not too old or infirm hurries to his parish church to attend this Mass.  In the mind of all participants, the peace and reconciliation which had resulted from the breaking of the wafer is blessed by the priest through the Midnight Mass.  Before entering the church, the people break the wafer with their friends and acquaintances who await them by the church door.  Popular belief has it that whoever desires a bountiful harvest must precede all others to the "pasterka."