Apostolic Vicariate of Southern Arabia (AVOSA) vicar general Fr. Troadio "Troy" Delos Santos, OFM Cap., cited the strong faith of overseas Filipino workers in the United Arab Emirates who religiously attend the “Simbang Gabi” despite their busy work schedules.

Fr. Delos Santos said Filipinos abroad have maintained their faith and have continued to observe age-old traditions such as the “Simbang Gabi” despite being miles away from their home country.
“I encourage all of you to seek God’s blessings and to pray fervently for yourself, your families, the community, and our country,” the Church leader said over Radio Veritas.
The UAE has once again allowed the holding of religious gatherings at the St. Joseph Cathedral after two years.
The priest said the theme for the masses in the UAE is - “Sa Pag-ibig, Pag-asa at Liwanag ni Kristo – Magkasama tayong Babangon ngayong Pasko,” serves as an invitation for everyone to rise up as one this Christmas two years into the pandemic.
“Through the hope and light that Christ brought into the world, we will rise up together as one Christian nation despite the difficulties these past years,” said Fr. Delos Santos.
For his part, Katolikong Pinoy sa Abu Dhabi media director Rommel Pangilinan said that he continues to organize the “Simbang Gabi” in the Middle East despite the difficulties. “To your mission Lord, we give our Yes!” Pangilinan stressed.