The Filipino Catholic Ministry of the Archdiocese of Vancouver announced the upcoming Simbang Gabi schedule to celebrate the joy of Christmas. It starts with a Commissioning Mass at 7 pm on December 14th at the Holy Rosary Cathedral.
Following Filipino Christmas and Advent traditions, the “Parol” (Christmas Lantern) Procession and the “Panuluyan” (Christmas Eve Play) will preface the evening’s celebration.
Then from December 16th to the 24th, interested parishioners can choose from the list of parishes celebrating Simbang Gabi and their time schedules.
Click here to see Simbang Gabi Schedule
A Christmas Marian Novena of Masses, Simbang Gabi is a nine-day devotion that honours the Annunciation, the expectation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and culminating in the birth of Jesus. Centered on the Eucharist. It is a combination of deep prayer, community spirit, reconciliation, hope, love, and the grateful recognition of our redemption.
Traditionally, the nine Simbang Gabi Masses are held at the crack of dawn in the Philippines but in Canada they are held in the evening starting on December 16th. These novena masses are one way to cope with Covid restrictions which limit l gatherings including church services. The Catholic churches are aware of these covid gathering guidelines such as masking and social distancing and are strictly following them.
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