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Annual Simbang Gabi Sa Shrine
The Fil-Am Catholic Community of Hudson Valley hosted their annual Simbang Gabi sa Shrine on Saturday, 21 December 2024, at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. “Simbang Gabi” is a Filipino phrase that translates to “Night Mass” in Tagalog, referring to a traditional nine-day series of dawn masses practiced by Filipino Catholics in the lead-up to Christmas, often starting on December 16th and ending on Christmas Eve; it’s essentially a Christmas Novena celebrated at daybreak, with “Simbang” meaning “Mass” and “Gabi” meaning “night.”
The annual Tagalog Mass was celebrated by Rev. Von Erick Maria Sandoval, O.Carm., Coordinator of the FACCHV group. Rev. Mr. Aaron Salvan of the Archdiocese of New York served as deacon. Rev. Gerard Tang Choon, O.Carm., Shrine Rector, and Rev. Roberto Perez, O.Carm., concelebrated. Seminarian John Bulatao of the Diocese of Brooklyn served as acolyte and Master of Ceremonies. The Very Rev. Mario Esposito, O.Carm., Prior Provincial, delivered the homily. The Mangonon Family and FACCHV friends provided music for the night.
Following the Mass, the Filipino community held their annual Christmas party at Pilgrim Hall, which consisted of a potluck, fellowship, and dancing. A great time was had by all. The Fil-Am Catholic Community of Hudson Valley looks forward to hosting more events at the Shrine this upcoming 2025 during the Jubilee Year.
SEL Media