Misa de Gallo
(The Mass of the Rooster)
2011
MISA DE GALLO/SIMBANG GABI
The Misa de Gallo is called the "Mass of the Rooster" because it is said that the only time that a rooster crowed at midnight was on the day that Jesus was born. Traditionally this series of events is one of the longest and most popular among the Filipino traditions in the country. It is when Catholic churches across the nation start to open their doors shortly before the break of dawn to welcome the faithful to the Misa De Gallo - Simbang Gabi Mass. Simbang Gabi or Mass at Dawn is a nine-day novena to the Blessed Mother. The novena begins December 16 as early as 4 in the morning and culminates with the “Misa de Gallo” on Christmas Eve to welcome the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. In some churches, the panuluyan is reenacted showing the effort of Joseph and Mary to find a suitable birthplace.
Below is a video from the final Misa de Gallo on December 24, 2011. Thanks go to Steve Barrios for being our Videographer at this memorable event.
Enjoy!!