The beloved Filipino Advent tradition of Simbang Gabi – a nine-day novena of spiritual preparation for the Birth of Christ – has unfolded seamlessly in coordinated observances around the Diocese of Trenton.
PHOTO GALLERY: 2024 Simbang Gabi Mass with Bishop
This year, Simbang Gabi, with its focus on gathering the community together in prayer and devotion, was held in nearly 30 parishes throughout Burlington, Mercer, Monmouth and Ocean Counties from Dec. 12 to Dec. 23.
Msgr. Sam Sirianni, standing to the Bishop’s left, and a number of Filipino priests from the Diocese, concelebrate Mass with the Bishop.
In a true spirit of celebration, Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., joined with the Filipino American Catholic Community of Monmouth County for their observance of Simbang Gabi, Dec. 20 in St. Robert Bellarmine Co-Cathedral, Freehold, where he celebrated the Mass then joined the parishioners for a festive celebration, complete with Filipino cuisine and dancing.
Simbang Gabi traces its roots in Mexico when, in 1587, the pope granted the petition of Fray Diego de Soria to hold Christmas Mass outdoors because the local church could not accommodate the large number of people attending the evening Mass.
It used to be that the pre-dawn Mass was announced by the ringing of the church bells. In some rural areas, an hour before the start of Simbang Gabi, a brass band would play Christmas music throughout the town. It is also believed that parish priests would travel far knocking on doors to wake and gather the faithful to attend the Misa de Gallo. Before heading to their work sites, farmers as well as fisherman would listen to the Gospel and pray for the grace of a good harvest.
Bishop O’Connell, Msgr. Sam Sirianni, Co-Cathedral rector, and Father Jean Felicien, the Bishop’s secretary and master of ceremonies, enjoy dancing during the social. Mike Ehrmann photos