Simbang Gabi is a Filipino Christmas tradition that involves nine days of early morning or midnight masses leading up to Christmas: 

• What it is Simbang Gabi is a series of nine masses that take place in the Philippines before Christmas. The name translates to “Night Mass” in Tagalog. 
• During Simbang Gabi, people attend mass, bring offerings of fruit, eggs, and rice to the altar, and make colorful lanterns to light their way. After mass, people share food and fellowship in a time called “Noche Buena”. 
• Simbang Gabi is a time of spiritual preparation for Christmas and a way to ask for blessings from the Lord. Some believe that completing the entire series of masses will grant wishes. 
  
  

Cordially inviting each one of you to join us for this wonderful and amazing tradition.

See you all and God bless.

Dear Filipino families and supporters of the mission:

As we gather together with our families to celebrate Thanksgiving Day, let us also take this moment to reflect on the blessings of Archdiocesan Filipino Ministry in the Archdiocese of Baltimore has received through the unwavering support of each one of you, our leaders, our cluster representatives, and working teams. Your faith-filled generosity and commitment have been instrumental in helping our Filipino ministry grow as a vibrant ministry rooted in Jesus’ mission. Every prayer, volunteer hour, and contribution of talent and treasure has strengthened our shared journey towards partnership in mission, making the light of Christ shine brighter in our Filipino families and beyond.

We’ve taken significant strides in bringing our plans to life, from ministries reaching out to the unengaged to our mission-driven events that nurture the faith of Filipino families and friends and strengthen our mission and leaders alike. Your efforts reflect our unity in Christ’s mission and dedication to reviving our mission in the Filipino ministry.  This mission thrives because you are willing to partner in the works of our church, financially support our mission, and work together in the ministries toward a vision of a vibrant Catholic Filipino Community of growing disciples filled with a solid and compassionate heart for the Lord and His people.

Thank you very much for being a vital part of the Archdiocesan Filipino Council’s journey and ministry. May God bless each of you abundantly, and may your Thanksgiving be filled with joy, peace, and the warmth of loved ones.

 With heartfelt gratitude,

Fr. Pete D. Literal, Chaplain