Archbishop Miller is encouraging all Vancouver Catholics—not just Filipinos—to embrace the tradition of Simbang Gabi, a nine-day series of novena Masses in preparation for Christmas and in honour of the Virgin Mary.
The Mass has become a significant moment in the Archdiocese of Vancouver’s preparations for the celebration of Christmas.
Originating in the 17th century in the Philippines, the beloved tradition will begin with the commissioning Mass at Holy Rosary Cathedral on Friday, Dec. 13 at 6:30 PM.
“It is my hope that many of the faithful beyond the Filipino community will embrace this Novena as a fitting way of preparing for our celebration of Christmas,” Archbishop Miller wrote in a recent pastoral letter.
“If your parish does not already celebrate Simbang Gabi, I would encourage you to ask any of your Filipino parishioners to take the lead in organizing a Novena of your own.”
During the Mass, representatives from participating parishes are officially commissioned as Simbang Gabi coordinators. In addition to the Mass, there will be a procession and the blessing of “parols” (Filipino lanterns), which can be displayed in local parishes as symbols of unity within the local Church.
The novena offers a special opportunity for “Filipinos in our local Church to help all the faithful celebrate the season of Advent and anticipate Christmas in a meaningful way,” said the Archdiocese’s Filipino Ministry.
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