MILLIONS OF Filipinos in the world today will start going to the church early morning each day to continue the tradition of Simbang Gabi. Catholics will attend a holy mass celebrated before dawn breaks. It is believed that completing the nine holy masses starting later until Christmas eve, one’s wish will be granted.
Although I am not a Catholic, I love this tradition for the simple reason that a lot of people begin to pay attention to their spirituality. Some might just be doing this as an annual routine, the opportunity to hear God’s word and to come across one of God’s miracles is always there.
The first Simbang Gabi I attended was in Marbel, when I was still a high school student. It was the Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC) then. Last week, I was able to go back to Marbel also for RSPC and, again, visited St. Anthony de Padua Parish. The church looked very different — stunningly beautiful — due to the recent renovation. I took some snapshots to show you how I’d love to attend at least one Simbang Gabi there.
Modern Memoirs 