On Dec. 16, 2022, Bishop George Leo Thomas, Ph.D., celebrated Mass for Simbang Gabi at Guardian Angel Cathedral.
Simbang Gabi is a traditional custom among Filipinos originating from the Philippines during its early years of Christianity. It is a series of novena masses celebrated in Catholic churches in the early morning or evening leading up to Christmas eve in joyous anticipation of baby Jesus’ birth.
This is a very much desired Filipino religious tradition for families to stay late or wake up early, attend mass and fill many churches. After the liturgy, delicious Filipino food and delicacies are served and shared by families. Thus, these novena masses become both a religious and social gathering. In the Diocese of Las Vegas, these novena masses are rotated around the city, celebrated in different parishes at their regular mass time, as published in parish bulletins.
Parishioners are invited to attend and participate in the novena. The Pastor/Associate at the assigned parish may preside the liturgy. Visiting priests may be welcome to concelebrate. The readings of the day are read and proclaimed. Following the Mass was a brunch with Filipino food.