Simbang Gabi is a tradition that was introduced by the Spanish friars to allow the farmers to hear mass before going to the fields early in the morning. It is also known by its popular Spanish name as the Misa de Gallo, or “Mass of the rooster”. Simbang Gabi means dawn mass. It is a Filipino tradition that dates back to 1587. It was untroduced by the Spanish Missionaries to encourage the faith of the Filipino people. It is a series of nine early morning Masses (novena), starting as early as 4:00a.m.

The tradition begins on December 16th and ends at midnight of December 24th (the Midnight Mass) with Noche Buena. During the Simbang Gabi days, most churches open their doors before the break of dawn to welcome church goers.

To wake people up, church bells start ringing as early as 3 o’clock in the morning. Bright Christmas lights ans colorful parols (lanterns) decorate houses and the church. People put on their special clothes and jewelry to got to church. They wear their special sweaters because of the cool December breeze.

photo source:flicker.com

After the mass, food stalls outside the church await the church goers for the purchase of the traditional delicacies usually different kakanin (rice cakes), hot pandesal (yeast roll) and empanada (dough breadstuffed withmeat). These traditional foods are usually served with salabat (ginger tea) or coffee. Christmas carols are heard everywhere. You can see joy on the peoples faces.

Simbang Gabi is a spiritual preparation for the birth of Jesus Christ. Some look at it as a way of requesting blessings from the Lord. some believe that if they pray and complete the Novena, their personal wishes/request will be granted.

Filipinos start before dawn to celebrate the real Advent with the coming of the Light of Christ. There is Holy week before Easter, there is Simbang Gabi before Christmas in the Philippines.

source: St Lambert Parish Bulletin