Simbang Gabi - Dec. 14 - Dec. 22

Simbang Gabi is a Filipino Catholic Advent tradition: a nine-day novena of Masses celebrated in the days leading up to Christmas, traditionally at dawn. Its name is commonly rendered “Night Mass,” even though the celebrations described by Pope Francis take place in the morning. It is both a way of preparing spiritually for Christ’s birth and a cherished expression of Filipino Catholic life — one that has travelled with Filipino communities to other countries.

The Diocese of Joliet will host events in both the Eastern and Western part of the diocese, beginning on Dec. 12 and culminating with a combined Mass with Bishop Daniel Conlon at 6:30 p.m. on December 22 at St. Walter Parish, 130 W. Pine Avenue, Roselle, IL 60172.

View a full schedule of Diocese of Joliet events HERE.

Pope Francis described Simbang Gabi as a Christmas-preparation novena observed in the Philippines for centuries: “For centuries in the Philippines, there has been a novena in preparation for Christmas called Simbang-Gabi (Night Mass) Over the course of nine days, the Filipino faithful meet in their parishes at dawn for a special Eucharistic celebration.”

The tradition’s meaning is not only that it expresses Filipino identity, though that identity is an important part of its life in the community. Its purpose is Christian preparation: to welcome the mystery of Christ’s birth and to live in expectation of the Lord. Pope Francis connected this preparation with a further responsibility—showing God’s tenderness, especially toward people who are poor or vulnerable. He urged those taking part to become witnesses of God’s love and to serve the least.