Missa de Gallo

Tomorrow, December 16 is the start of the dawn Novena Masses known in the Philippines as Missa de Gallo, or literally translated as mass of the rooster. This is so because this mass starts at dawn. For nine consecutive dawns before Christmas eve a mass is held. Filipinos are passionate about this Christmas tradition which originally was imported from Mexico during the colonial days but to this day has survived in the Philippines. The Catholic Church of the Philippines has enjoyed this dispensation from the Holy See ever since. This is one of the most beautiful aspect of our tradition worth preserving. It highlights the importance of Christmas, of family and of togetherness. This also shows what importance we Filipinos give to children and family. For nine consecutive dawns family members would rise up early to attend this masses. This tradition has been associated with many other things. Children look up to this with anticipation. After mass the faithful is treated to a cup of ginger tea and other foods. Even as we struggle to preserve this beautiful tradition the soul of our nation is battered by the ugly reproductive health bill that threatens the integrity of the family and our natural love for family and children. How sad that this secular values of "happiness" laced with selfish interests would overshadow our self sacrificing love for the family. How sad that material affluence has been our standard of happiness rather than the unity, togetherness and the social security provided for by the family. Let us pray in these Missa de Gallo that the Lord would preserve our country, our faith and our religion.