Simbang Gabi 2016

Merry Christmas and happy new Year! Tonight December 18th I was involved in mass at St. Luke the Evangelist to celebrate the Filipino Simbang Gabi which was adapted from the Catholic mass named Misa de Gallo which literally stands for mass of the rooster. I was fortunate to attend the bilingual mass as part of the Fourth Degree, Bishop Wendelin J. Nold Assembly 2084.

Being a well celebrated Filipino tradition, Starting on December 16, a nine-day novena to the Blessed Mother which culminates to Christmas eve, Misa de Gallo or (mass of the rooster) the Celebration is to welcome the birth of Jesus Christ. Farmers used lanterns called "parolas" which were used to symbolize the Star of Bethlehem to guide them to the early mass. Tonight was a festive evening starting with mass and with a marvelous dinner. Santa Clause also was sighted bringing gifts and cheer to the children. Door prizes, money and a good time was part of the night.
No matter part of the world you are from masses may differ and we may have another way we call his name , we can honestly say we all celebrate the coming of our savior Jesus Christ.

Jose Lara 4TH DEGREE,BISHOP WENDELIN J. NOLD ASSEMBLY 2084