Simbang Gabi Message from Bishop Alex Aclan

sglogo Every year, our Filipino Community shares their beautiful culture with us, as well as many visitors from the Archdiocese of Los Angeles for our Annual Simbang Gabi Mass and Celebration. Simbang Gabi is a 9 day series of Masses, celebrated by Filipinos all over the world. It is a joyful celebration in thanks for the coming of the Christ Child, and a devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

In the early days of Spanish rule in the Philippines, Masses were held in the early mornings, so farmers would avoid the heat while working in the fields. Simbang Gabi is a time for family, friends, and the community to share gifts, create memories, and to preserve the traditions that have been passed down.

This year would have been our 6th Annual Simbang Gabi Mass and Celebration at St. Monica. While we are unable to host our evening this year, Bishop Alex Aclan, our presider last year, the Auxiliary Bishop for the San Fernando Pastoral Region, and only the 2nd Filipino-American to be named a bishop in the United States, has sent us a special message and prayer.

Thank you Bishop Aclan and we all await in the hope for a time when we can celebrate together in 2021!