Filipinos
in various parts of the country and certain parishes and chaplaincies in the
world began “Simbang Gabi” last December 16 as preparation for Christmas.
Also called “Misa de
Gallo”, as most Masses are celebrated as early as 4 in the morning, when the
cock crows at dawn. Tradition has it that farmers would go to the novena of
Masses early in the morning and proceed to the fields to work.
In recent
years, Simbang Gabi are also celebrated in parishes in the evening.
At the
Good Shepherd Convent, the Simbang Gabi held on December 16 was held at 4:30 in
the morning. Presided by Fr. Tony de Castro SJ, the dawn Mass was attended by
Good Shepherd Sisters, staff, neighbors, friends and the girls in the
residences. In his homily, Fr. De Castro stressed on the beautiful tradition of
nine-day dawn Masses as preparation for Christmas that is unique to Filipinos.
At the
end of the Eucharistic celebration, those present enjoyed breakfast together in
front of the Good Shepherd Chapel.
Schedule
of Masses at the Good Shepherd Convent
December
24, Midnight Mass: 10:00 p.m., Presiders: Fr.
Nonong Pili / Fr. Froilan
December
25, Christmas Mass: 10:30 a.m., Presider: Fr. Eric Eusebio SJ
December 26, 7:00 a.m.
December 27-31, 6:30 a.m.