The Filipino Catholic celebration of Simbang Gabi began in parishes throughout the Archdiocese of Los Angeles on Friday, Dec. 15.
Simbang Gabi is one of the oldest Filipino Christmas traditions, where the faithful gather for nine days of Masses, prayers to the Child Jesus, and festive gatherings — typically held in the early morning or evening.
Auxiliary Bishop Albert M. Bahhuth, Episcopal Vicar for the San Fernando pastoral region, celebrated Friday night’s Mass at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in downtown L.A. Thousands attended the Mass which included choral music and the Parade of Parols, brought to the Cathedral from over 120 participating parishes and Filipino American community organizations around the Archdiocese.
The parols — a long-held tradition of colorful Christmas lanterns — were blessed at the end of the Mass. Organizers said they are used to light up people’s homes, carried by parishioners attending Simbang Gabi, or “Mass before dawn.”
This year’s Simbang Gabi theme in the Archdiocese is “Jesus, the Greatest Gift of All, Truly Present in the Eucharist!”
The first of nine days of special Masses and events were held at Catholic churches throughout L.A. County, including at Holy Family Church in South Pasadena and Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Downey.
For a full schedule of Simbang Gabi Masses in the L.A. Archdiocese, visit angelusnews.com/local/la-catholics/simbang-gabi-2023.
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