Simbang Gabi is a Filipino tradition through which Advent expectation realizes the fulfillment of Christmas joy. During Simbang Gabi, early morning Masses are offered over a series of nine days leading up to Christmas. Celebrations follow Mass, where delicacies like baked rice cakes and breakfast rolls are enjoyed.

Traditionally, Simbang Gabi Masses are held before dawn, a practice that originated in the 17th century in the Philippines when most of the faithful had to work the rest of the day in the fields.

During Mass, the priest wears white vestments and the Gloria is sung, a practice for which the Holy See has given special permission. Traditionally, the nine-day sequence ends with Midnight Mass on Dec. 24.

The tradition has been adapted to fit the needs of Filipino communities throughout the world, and the Masses might not even be offered in the morning at all, but in the afternoon or evening.

©LPi