Cardinal Francis George Celebrates 25 Years of Simbang Gabi Here

Cardinal Francis George led Mass at St. Martha's Catholic Church  Thursday evening, which marked the 25th anniversary of celebrating Simbang Gabi in the Chicago Archdiocese.

"It's amazing. What can I say? We are so blessed," said Violeta Nabong, a parishioner at the Morton Grove church.

The significant anniversary Mass was made even more special when the cardinal of the Chicago Archdiocese decided to lead the event.

"This is a big, big deal in the community," said Cathy Phillips, director of religious education at St. Martha's.

Simbang Gabi is a very important tradition among Filipinos that celebrates the Christmas season beginning on Dec. 16, nine days before Jesus' birth. During the nine days leading up to Dec. 25, devout Filipino Catholics attend midnight or dawn mass.

During this tradition, mass typically takes place either at midnight or early, sometimes at 4 a.m. Historically, the masses were held early enough so Filipino farmers could attend before returning to their crops and harvest. At the end of the nine days, the tradition welcomes Christmas day or the birth of Jesus.

"It's all about tradition," said Carlos Guico, head usher at St. Martha's Church.

Guico, who grew up in the Philippines, explained that these nine days are very special to Filipino Catholics. Growing up, Guico's parents would take him to Mass every Sunday and of course, Simbang Gabi. The Christmas time tradition is at the heart of being a Filipino Catholic, something that Guico wants his own kids to remember and cherish, even though they're in America.

"We learn it then we pass it on to our children," said Guico. "It really strengthens their belief in the Filipino tradition."   

Cardinal George recognized this commitment to tradition within the Filipino community and said that devotion and commitment is a great witness for the rest of the Catholic community throughout the world and within Chicago.

Mass began with a few parishioners in procession carrying decorative stars, which symbolized the light of Jesus. Cardinal George called for the parishioners to give thanks for the friend or mentor in their lives, that like the star, guided them to the way of God. Give thanks, he said to "who has helped you become a saint and always living in God's presence."

Cardinal George's message fell on the ears of a packed house. More than 30 people were in the standing room to hear his message. Many church-goers got tickets prior to the event to reserve a floor seat. From that count, organizers expected at least 800 individuals to attend. People started to trickle in an hour and a half before Mass, to save themselves a seat. 

On the ninth and final day of Simbang Gabi, parishioners attended Mass as a way to remember and welcome the birth of Jesus.

"We are to be the light that each of us needs. Be the light, be the guide," said Cardinal George.