2012, November 20. Christmas 2012
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PHILIPPINES CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS
Simbang Gabi"
is a Filipino Christmas tradition, it is a series of nine (9) dawn
masses, the mass starts as early as 4:00 a.m. It begins on December
16 and ends on the midnight of the 24th of December, which is the
midnight mass.
This tradition was
introduced by the Spanish friars to allow the farmers to hear mass
before going to the fields early in the morning. Simbang Gabi is
also known by its popular Spanish name as the Misa de Gallo, or
``mass of the rooster.''
In the olden days, the
church bells start ringing as early as three o' clock waking people
up so they can get ready for the four o'clock dawn mass.
The Roman Catholic
churches across the nation start to open their doors shortly before
the break of dawn to welcome the faithfuls to the Simbang Gabi mass.
Today, the tradition of
Simbang Gabi continues whether you live in the city or in the
province, although it is celebrated in new ways. Most churches are
decorated with colorful lights and beautiful parol lanterns to
welcome the church goers.
The Nativity Scene
or "Belen" is displayed in preparation for the celebration
of the birth of Jesus Christ. It shows Baby Jesus in a manger with
Mother Mary and Saint Joseph. There are shepherds and farm animals.
A complete scenario of the Belen includes the three wise men
carrying their gifts to Infant Jesus and the star of Bethlehem that
guided them in their journey.
Shortly after the mass,
traditional delicacies awaits the church goers, there are food
stalls right outside the church, popular favorites are bibingka,
puto (rice cakes), puto bungbong, suman sa pasko, suman sa ibos and
usually served with tea or coffee. Hot pandesal (breakfast roll) are
also very popular.
(http://mmdelrosario.hubpages.com/hub/Filipino-Christmas-Tradition-Simbang-Gabi)