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Celebrating Christmas with Simbang Gabi

(UPDATED AS OF DECEMBER 19, 2016) Apart from gift-giving, caroling, parties and traditional food, Christmas in the Philippines will not be complete without Simbang Gabi.

Translates to Night Mass, Simbang Gabi is held from December 16-24 and is usually done as early as 4:00 or 5:00 in the morning.

The tradition began in 1587 when Pope Sixtus V granted the petition of Father Diego de Soria to hold Christmas masses outdoors in order to accommodate the huge number of people attending the evening mass. Eventually, in the 17th century, the dawn mass was introduced in the Philippines by the Spanish conquerors.

In most parts of the world it is celebrated in anticipation of Christmas and honor to the Blessed Virgin Mary. For nine days, devotees flock to churches at dawn to attend masses.

Centuries have passed but the tradition of Simbang Gabi continues in the Philippines. Colorful lights, lanterns and songs in every street are scenes to look forward to every morning. Shortly after the masses, families gather to feast on various delicacies like bibingka, puto bumbong, or a drink of salabat or hot chocolate.

On the last day of Simbang Gabi, which is Christmas Eve, it is called Misa de Gallo which literally translates to Rooster’s Mass. It is believed that the completion of Simbang Gabi would mean granting of a prayer.

Since over 70 million Filipinos are Catholic – according to a report by the Catholic Directory of the Philippines – Simbang Gabi is indeed a big tradition. So prepare and be guided. Here’s the weather outlook for the next days: http://panahon.tv/weather-today/

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