The Australian Filipina is delighted to bring to its readers the Christmas Fun Facts cheers shared by the Philippine Tourism in Australia and New Zealand.
?We are glad to share the third set in the series. This features Simbang Gabi. Simbang Gabi Mass in the Philippines are held daily from December 16 to 24 and occur at different times ranging from as early as 3:00 to 5:00 PST.
The Philippine Christmas spirit remains strong as Filipinos around the world cope with COVID 19 restrictions which preclude travelling to the Philippines presently. We have received feedback from readers that bringing the Christmas Cheers series gives them joy.
Here in Sydney, there are churches that hold Simbang Gabi, albeit the attendance by the congregation is limited to comply with the restrictions. One such church is St Joaquim's Catholic Church in Lidcombe which holds Simbang Gabi at 5.15am. Attendance is by booking due to COVID restrictions.
This is the 9th year that St Joaquim's Catholic Church under Fil-Aussie Parish Priest, Fr Ed Orilla's is undertaking this Filipino tradition. Fr Ed is joined by Bishops and other clergy members of multicultural background in celebrating Simbang Gabi.
The Philippine Tourism ANZ would also like to dedicate this heart-warming Christmas video made by the Filomates to remind us that there is no distance too far for Filipinos all over the world during this holiday season.
https://www.facebook.com/TourismPhilippines.anz/posts/2798592960425977