Simbang Gabi...... Simula ng Pasko

Simbang Gabi is one of the longest and most popular of the Filipino traditions. December 16 marks the beginning of the Christmas novena, or Simbang Gabi, in Tagalog.  For Filipino Catholics the nine-day celebration before Christmas is a tradition with deep roots in the country's religious culture. Literally, simbang gabi means ``night worship.'' The name comes from the Catholic custom of gathering for the celebration of the Eucharist in the pre-dawn hours on each of the nine days before Christmas. This tradition was introduced by the Spanish friars to allow the farmers to hear mass before going to the fields early in the morning. Hence, this celebration is also known by its popular Spanish name as the misa de gallo. Catholic churches throughout the country will be ringing their bells around 3:00 or 3:30 in the morning long before the roosters crow.

Today, the tradition of Simbang Gabi continues whether you live in the city or in the province, although it is celebrated in new ways. Most churches are decorated with colourful lights and beautiful parol lanterns to welcome the church goers. The Belen is displayed in preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. It shows Baby Jesus in a manger with Mother Mary and St. Joseph, the shepherds and farm animals. It also includes the three wise men carrying their gifts to Infant Jesus and the star of Bethlehem that guided them in their journey.

St. Andrew's Cathedral
Quirino Avenue, La Huerta Paranaque

San Dionisio Chapel
San Dionisio, Paranaque

After the mass, the church goers can enjoy traditional delicacies that are sold in stalls right outside the church. Favourites like bibingka, puto , puto bumbong, suman are usually served with tea, tsokolate or coffee.

Puto Bumbong, Bibingka and Kalamay

Hot Pandesal

Simbang Gabi is the spiritual preparation for Christmas, the birth of Jesus Christ. It is also seen as a way of requesting blessings from the Lord,as most of us believe that if one completes the whole series of nine dawn masses, wishes will be granted.

So, let the bells of the Misa de Gallo break the pre-dawn silence of the whole land. The bells offer a message of hope in God and of hope for peace on earth.