Today, the traditional dawn Masses, the Misa de Gallo, kick off in the churches in the Philippines and in other countries where there are Filipino communities. Cognizant of this unique culture of Filipinos that has inspired Catholics all over the world, Pope Francis celebrated his first Misa de Gallo inside St. Peter’s Basilica in 2019.

“Pope Francis saw the beauty of this local tradition, that is why he celebrated his first Misa de Gallo,” said Archbishop Jose Palma of Cebu. Whether celebrated in early dawn or at night as anticipated Mass, we see light shining through the darkness as people go to church guided by the parol—the traditional Christmas “star”—or by Christmas lights in different sizes and shapes.

These remind us of the “light” that John the Baptist brought to the people by calling them to prepare for the coming of the Messiah. John himself is not the light, but came to testify to the light who is none other than Jesus, the light of the world (Jn 8:12). But we in turn, like John, become the light of the world through our good deeds that glorify the Father in heaven (Mt 5:14, 16).

In this light, Pope Francis invites especially Filipino migrants, “May your faith be ‘leaven’ in the parish communities to which you belong. I encourage you to increase the opportunities for encounter, to share your cultural and spiritual wealth, at the same time letting yourselves be enriched by the experiences of others” (Homily, Mass for the Filipino Community, Dec. 15, 2019).

Jesus said to the Jews, “You sent emissaries to John, and he testified to the truth. I do not accept testimony from a human being, but I say this so that you may be saved.

John was a burning and shining lamp, and for a while you were content to rejoice in his light. But I have testimony greater than John’s. The works that the Father gave me to accomplish, these works that I perform testify on my behalf that the Father has sent me.”