Simbang
Gabi
Simbang
Gabi, Misa de Gallo, Aguinaldo Masses, whatever you want it to be called, this
nine mornings starting from December 16 to 24 is a “Filipino style” preparation
for the coming of the Lord.
The
Simbang Gabi, according to the Philippine Ordo, is described as: Masses in
honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary DURING ADVENT (Missa Rorate Caeli).
In
the spirit of the season one may lawfully use in these Masses the weekday
lectionary, The Gloria is sung in these Masses and white vestment is used even
on Sunday.
Clarifications
1. The
Simbang Gabi is a Votive Mass in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary DURING ADVENT.
Therefore, prayers must be taken from the common of Our Lady in Advent and not
the prayers for the advent weekday.
2.
By way of
exception from the sober character of the Advent liturgy, the said Masses are
festive (white vestments, singing of the Gloria, festive ornamentation). But,
Christmas Songs must be limited: it can be sung at the recessional and must
have a Christian message, excluding commercialized Christmas songs or carols
seen on television.
Pastoral
Suggestions:
1. To
have a more meaningful celebration, High Masses must be limited to show
progressive solemnity. This is a way that people may have a more joyful and
solemn celebration on Christmas.
2. Faithful
to the prayers and readings will help the faithful to distinct the spirit of
advent with the theme and tradition of Simbang Gabi. Let it be cleared that the
Mass is in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
3. Because
Simbang Gabi falls on December 17-24, the “O” Antiphons must be instilled in
the Liturgy of the Hours, and, if possible, to the Eucharistic Celebration (as
verses for Gospel Acclamation. See Lectionary).
