The Reason of Simbang Gabi

Facade of St. Anthony of Padua Parish Church, Singalong, Manila

               Leaving NCFP yesterday, my office mate Lucille looked forward to waking up early tomorrow for her last Simbang Gabi… very happy to almost completing her nine-day pledge to attend it since December 16.  Many Filipinos showed their felicity for Christmas through the tradition of Simbang Gabi or Evening Mass.  Dawn Masses in preparation for Christmas were celebrated in most Catholic churches from December 16 until December 24.  This would culminate to the joyful celebration of Christ’s birthday with the Misa de Gallo or Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve.

Looking at the church from the side of St. Anthony School

               It is interesting to note that the Simbang Gabi tradition has its roots from Mexico in the 16^th century and was adopted in the Philippines during the latter part of the 17^th century. Filipino farmers and fishermen were invited to attend the dawn Masses and for practical purposes, it was held at dawn so that they could still work afterwards.  Until now, many would attend the Simbang Gabi.  It is a special way for the Filipino soul to adore and thank their Creator for the ending year, or through it to say sorry, or to ask a concrete favor from God during the Simbang Gabi novena.

Some thirty minutes before 9:00 p.m. December 16, 2010 Holy Mass

               Nowadays, parishes have considered anew the circumstances of the people attending the Simbang Gabi.  Although some parishes would celebrate it either at night or at dawn, our parish -- St. Anthony of Padua in Singalong -- had the Simbang Gabi at 9:00 p.m. and 4:00 a.m.  The congregation in the church would usually await the homily of the priest celebrant so as to enrich more their spiritual preparation for Christmas.  They would also enthusiastically sing the Advent and Christmas songs during Mass.  The church is well lit and is beautifully decorated with local Christmas lanterns called parol.  The main attraction for all inside the Church is the Belen or the Nativity Scene arrangement.

The Joy of Advent is very much in the air during the Simbang Gabi

              During the Simbang Gabi, churches teem with people especially young ones.  I think it is due to the Joy conveyed by the Event as it focused on the Faith and bonding with family and friends.  Filipinos also want to do things together like singing songs and eating good food after Mass.  After each Simbang Gabi, many would anticipate the traditional breakfast options: bibingka or puto bumbong with tsokolate, kape, or salabat. Today, there are more and varied choices for breakfast just outside the church.

               I attended my first Simbang Gabi when I was in junior high school.  My best friend and I decided to attend it so she picked me up at home around 3:30 a.m.  Myra and I then attended the 4:00 a.m. Mass.  After that  Simbang Gabi, we were so sleepy at school the whole day.  I cannot remember now other details of that Mass, but Myra—who has been in the United States for many years—and I would always remember fondly the joy of the experience, our sleepiness, and our breakfast—hot chocolate donuts—after the Simbang Gabi.

Images of St. Joseph with Our Lady expecting the Child Jesus (found just near the entrance of St. Anthony Church)

              The Holy Mass in Simbang Gabi shows the unity of Faith as it transcends the then and now, the here and there.   I know that many Filipinos in the U.S. and other countries also try to have Simbang Gabi even if it’s winter.  Sustaining great traditions truly require genuine devotedness.  Thanks to those who have given their very best, their all, in preserving this Christian tradition and its accompanying Filipino customs.  How they highlight clearly the reason of the Season—the Joy in the coming of Jesus Christ who is yet unborn and defenseless in the Blessed Virgin Mary's womb.  

               
               Maligayang Pasko!