Editor,
Simbang Gabi has long been a cornerstone of Filipino Christmas traditions. For nine days leading up to Christmas, families and communities come together for devotional novena masses. It’s a time to reflect on faith, share in the joy of the season and celebrate the unique cultural identity that makes this tradition so meaningful.
Father Swann Kim of Saint Jude's Catholic Church helped bring back the Simbang Gabi tradition to the Filipino community in 100 Mile House this Christmas. Many Filipinos and other parishioners attended the Simbang Gabi masses from Dec. 15 to 23 and many of them completed the nine-day advent novena masses. After the mass, the church hall came alive with shared laughter, conversations, and the aroma of traditional Filipino delicacies.
Treats like bibingka (glutinous rice cake ), puto (white round rice cake ) and cassava cake weren’t just snacks—they were reminders of home for many, evoking fond memories of past Christmases. On the last night, the event ended with a vibrant potluck dinner, a joyful exchange of gifts, and a successful fundraising activity that showcased the community’s generosity and camaraderie.
The tradition of Simbang Gabi began during the Spanish colonial period, more than four centuries ago. It started as Misa de Gallo, or "Rooster’s Mass," held before sunrise to accommodate the daily schedules of farmers. While dawn masses remain popular in rural areas, many churches in cities and abroad now offer evening services. Evening Simbang Gabi may feel different, but it keeps the essence of the tradition alive.
At Saint Jude's Catholic Church, the Simbang Gabi celebration brought people together in a way that felt both comforting and familiar. Parishioners enjoyed meals that reminded them of their heritage and sang songs that transported them back to celebrations in the Philippines. For many, this gathering wasn’t just about faith it was a way to feel closer to their roots.
This occasion shows how traditions can adapt to new places while keeping their heart intact. Saint Jude’s first-ever Simbang Gabi was more than just a celebration it was a heartfelt expression of faith, culture, and the enduring joy of Christmas.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth Hesse
100 Mile House
