KUCHING: Over 100 members of the Filipino Catholics together with their families gathered at Holy Trinity Church here to complete the ‘Simbang Gabi’ novena, a cherished Christmas tradition carried far from home but firmly anchored in faith, hope and community.
Commonly known as the Night Mass in English, the nine-day novena of dawn Masses held from Dec 16 to 24 is more than a religious observance.
For many Filipinos in Kuching, it is a reminder of home and resilience, while also reflecting the city’s multicultural harmony as locals join in the celebration each year.
The last day, celebrated at 5 am by Reverend Father Andre, Reverend Father Ramon and Reverend Father Galvin, brought together Filipino parishioners and local worshippers for a one-hour service marked by quiet devotion and reflection.
The Mass was celebrated bilingually, blending English with Tagalog hymns and scripture readings — an inclusive approach that allowed both the Filipino community and locals to fully engage in spiritual experience.
In his sermon, Father Andre spoke about the burdens many carry as they come to Simbang Gabi, and the hope that draws them back each morning despite their worries.
“Many people come to Simbang Gabi carrying worries in their hearts, yet they still come because they believe that the Light is coming.
“When darkness ends, light emerges. The dawn always comes. Jesus comes, bringing light, warmth and peace.
“Pope Leo once said that migrants are carriers of hope. Wherever they go, faith is planted, and through them, others are able to witness that faith,” he said.
After the Mass concluded, parishioners gathered for salo-salo — a Filipino tradition of sharing food and fellowship — where families and friends exchanged simple dishes, conversation and laughter, strengthening the sense of togetherness.
It was understood that the Simbang Gabi novena was first introduced here by Father Albert, with the help of Filipino Community in Kuching (FILCOM) leader Justin Bersales, and has since been organised by the Filipino Community under the Ministry to Migrants for more than a decade.
Now a regular event, it has been celebrated at Holy Trinity Church for the past three years, becoming a familiar and meaningful part of the city’s Christmas calendar.
Simbang Gabi, known as Misa de Gallo in Spanish, the tradition dates back to the Spanish colonial period in the Philippines and was originally intended as a practical compromise for farmers who began work in the fields before sunrise.
Today, the cherished custom has evolved into a defining feature of Filipino Christmas celebrations — a symbol of sharing, thanksgiving, hope and unity, quietly kept alive in the soft light of dawn.
