To many, Christmas is officially here when Simbang Gabi starts on Dec. 16.

To all, the date means Christmas is near — only nine days away.

It is the time for early morning masses when the Catholic faithful start their day with a Holy Mass before going to work.

This Filipino tradition that started in the 1600s unites Filipinos at home and in many parts of the world. Where there is a Filipino community in the US, Middle East, Europe, or any country, there will be Simbang Gabi masses whose schedules are now posted on social media and online websites.

The tradition started in the late 1600s as the result of an adjustment to allow farmers to hear mass before going out to work in the fields – thus the early hour of the holy mass.

Decades ago, the Simbang Gabi masses were held as anticipated masses for the early morning ceremony to allow working people to follow the tradition after work. In 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Simbang Gabi was presented online because restrictions kept people at home to prevent the spread of the virus.

No matter the time of the tradition — early morning or evening — or where it is held, Simbang Gabi sparks the same spirit of the season.

Simbang Gabi allows us to reflect and reconnect with the Almighty. We express gratitude for the gift of life and the blessings of kith and kin. We become mindful that we must “act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly” with our Lord and Savior, the “reason for the season.” Being with the church community at early morning, or at the end of one’s work day to prepare for Christmas also reminds one of the bond shared with past generations who prepared to commemorate the birthday of Jesus Christ.

The lighter side of Simbang Gabi is the food that comes after the mass which are sold by vendors outside the churches. Although bibingka, puto bumbong and tsokolate are now regular items in a Filipino restaurant’s menu, their aromas always reminding us of Simbang Gabi.

This year, with the restrictions eased due to the lower number of COVID cases, the Catholic faithful look forward to celebrating Simbang Gabi masses at churches or online. Those who go to the churches are reminded to bring their vaccination cards and to be patient should they not be allowed inside the church due to capacity restrictions in enclosed places.

Despite the limitations and challenges of being physically present in church, may the tradition of Simbang Gabi lead you to a deeper understanding of faith, and to be inspired to do acts of kindness.

It is the time to wish you all “Happy Holidays!”