Simbang Gabi is not just a tradition that is celebrated because Filipinos need to do so.It
is a significant moment not only because it strengthens relationships
among family members and the community but also because it is a time
when our faith is intensified.This is the time when we
mostly feel the presence of the Lord because it is the spiritual
preparation for Christmas, the birth of Jesus Christ.
Living abroad does not necessarily break the preservation of our Filipino tradition, however, celebrating Simbang Gabi outside the Philippines requires some creative planning on the part of its organizers. In
Calgary, because the Filipino community does not have its own church
and its members are deeply integrated in the respective parishes where
they belong, the success of holding a Simbang Gabi novena depends foremost on the availability of parishes willing to host such event
In 2007, nine (9) parishes celebrated Simbang Gabi. In
2008, ten (10) parishes celebrated Simbang Gabi.
