The Filipino novena of Advent Masses begins today. Here's more information.
The beginnings of simbang gabi in the Philippines can be traced back to 1668, when religious missionaries brought from Mexico the practice to our country. There are a few versions of the story of its origin, but one of them is that the priests from the Spanish period agreed to hold the predawn Masses so that farmers could hear Mass before they set off to work in the fields.
Traditionally, simbang gabi is celebrated in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Pope Sixtus V, however, added the following intentions: (1) glorification and exaltation of the Holy Mother Church; (2) propagation of the Holy Catholic Faith; and (3) preservation of the newly baptized natives in the True Faith.
Today in the Philippines, the simbang gabi is celebrated “for the perseverance of the Filipino nation in the faith and the preservation of our holy religion in this part of the world.” It is good to reflect on this intention at this time of challenges and disagreements. And as we attend the early morning masses, let us ask God to help heal our nation and bless the hearts of our leaders.
