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PREPARING OUR HEARTS FOR CHRIST: SIMBANG GABI AT QUIAPO CHURCH

Dec. 19, 2025 08:48 AM

Manila Philippines _ December 15, 2025

Simbang Gabi has once again begun at the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno—Quiapo Church, a place widely regarded as a significant landmark for major liturgical celebrations of the Catholic Church in the country.

The 4:00 a.m. Mass was presided over by Rev. Fr. Jonathan Noel Mojica, followed by the 5:00 a.m. Mass led by Rev. Fr. Jade Licuanan.

In his homily, Fr. Jonathan posed a heartfelt and challenging question to the faithful: “Ikaw ba bilang Kristiyano bakit ka narito?” (You as a Christian, why are you here?) He emphasized that as early as the first day, every parishioner should already be clear about the true purpose of attending the Mass. He reminded everyone that Simbang Gabi should not be about the food one looks forward to after Mass around Quiapo, nor about completing a series of nine Masses for photos to post on social media. Rather, if the reason for waking up early, sacrificing comfort, and persevering through the novena is Jesus Himself, then one is truly in the right place and at the right time for Simbang Gabi.

Fr. Jonathan also reminds everyone to attend Simbang Gabi with solemnity and reverence – not merely to ask personal intentions or favors, but to rejoice in the coming of the Lord. This joyful anticipation mirrors the joy of the Blessed Virgin Mary as she awaited the birth of her Son, Jesus Christ.

Simbang Gabi has long been one of the most cherished religious traditions in the Philippines. Yet, it is far more than a custom observed out of obligation. It is a deeply meaningful spiritual journey—one that not only strengthens the bonds among family members but, more importantly, rekindles and deepens our faith. It is during these dawn liturgies that many faithful experiences the nearness of the Lord, as Simbang Gabi serves as a profound spiritual preparation for Christmas, the birth of Jesus Christ.

According to church officials, more than 2,500 parishioners attended the first Simbang Gabi Mass on its opening day, with hopes that this devotion will remain strong and consistent until the final day of the novena.

To ensure the safety and security of the faithful, heightened police visibility was observed in and around the church, particularly considering possible security threats during large religious gatherings. Likewise, volunteer responder groups and medical teams from the parish were on standby to assist anyone who might feel unwell or lose consciousness due to the large crowd. The Novena will continue until December 23, 2025, with Masses scheduled at 4:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m., as well as at 7:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. at Quiapo Church, while a simultaneous daily 6:00 p.m. celebration is being held at the Kartilya ng Katipunan, Manila City Hall.


More than the ability to complete the nine-day novena, what truly matters is the disposition of the heart. Blessings are not measured by the number of Masses attended, but by the sincerity, humility, and openness of the person who comes before the Lord. True grace flows from a heart ready to receive Him.

Simbang Gabi, therefore, is an invitation: to reflect, to prepare, and to welcome Christ not only into our celebrations, but more importantly into our hearts. It calls each believer to renewal – of faith, hope, and of love – amid the challenges of daily life. As the faithful gather before dawn, offering their time, sacrifice, and prayers, Simbang Gabi becomes a living testament that faith continues to unite and strengthen the Filipino people.

At Quiapo Church, this sacred journey is not merely remembered – it is lived. Each Mass becomes a moment of encounter, each prayer a step closer to Christ, each dawn a reminder that true hope is born from faith grounded in sincerity and devotion. As Christmas draws near, Simbang Gabi continues to shine as beacon of spiritual preparation, guiding the faithful toward the joy and light of the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

 

 

 

Angelyn L. Garcia | Social Communications