Participants carry a traditional parol during the processional at a previous Archdiocesan Simbang Gabi celebration at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in Los Angeles. (Photo from a previous Simbang Gabi celebration)
A joyful tradition of the Filipino-American community is hard to let go even outside of the homeland. A case in point is the culturally ingrained Simbang Gabi, a devotional, nine-day series dawn Masses in anticipation of Christmas.
“This is the Philippines’ most loved tradition on display at its finest,” as best described by Filipino Ministry-Archdiocese of Los Angeles President Noel Motus.
Hosted by the San Pedro Pastoral Region, the Simbang Gabi or evening Masses will kickstart on December 15 at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels on 555 W. Temple St. in downtown Los Angeles.
According to the organizers, “A spectacular and colorful Parade of Christmas Parols (Lanterns) will precede the 23rd Archdiocesan Mass at 5:45 pm with 150 plus parishes and organizations participating. This will be followed by an awesome but solemn Eucharistic Celebration presided by Archbishop Jose Gomez that includes about 50 concelebrating bishops and clergy, with a 100-member inter-parish choir and orchestra providing beautiful liturgical and Christmas music.
Mr. Motus also announced, “We are honored that Philippine Consul General Adelio Soriano Cruz and his wife Cathy Cruz will be in attendance at this event.”
As a brief backgrounder, this tradition was introduced by the Spanish friars in the Philippines to allow farmers to hear Mass before venturing in the fields. It is also called Misa de Gallo (Spanish for Rooster’s Mass).
Filipino Ministry head Motus implored, “Halina na kayo. Celebrate with us!” Interested parties may call or text him @ 562-282-3071 or email him @ noelmotus7@gmail.com. – Dan E. Niño
