ILOILO — As thousands of Ilonggos start flocking to churches for the start of the traditional Simbang Gabi, the Archdiocese of Jaro has stepped up reminders not only on proper dress but on the deeper meaning of the nine-day devotion, emphasizing reverence, sacrifice, and heightened security amid the expected surge of churchgoers beginning this December 16.
Reverend Father Angelo Colada, director of the Archdiocese of Jaro’s Social Communication Office, said Simbang Gabi (Evening Mass of Waiting) — or Misa de Aguinaldo (Dawn Mass) — is not merely a tradition but a spiritual offering that calls for sincerity in prayer and reflection, as well as outward respect manifested through decent attire and disciplined conduct inside churches.
“Ang pagbugtaw naton sa aga ukon pagpulaw sa gab-i nga misa bahin sang aton pag-sakripisyo bilang halad naton kag regalo naton sa mahal nga Dios,” Colada said in an interview with Panay News.
He stressed that the intention and disposition of worshippers should be “sensiro kag seryoso,” noting that genuine prayer and meditation open believers to God’s continuing blessings.
“Ang pulong sang Dios pamatian naton kag pamalandongan. Ang Dios padayun nga nagahatag sang bendisyon kag nagapahayag sang iya kaugalingon sa nagakalain-lain nga sitwasyon sang aton kabuhi,” Colada added.
With large congregations expected, Colada said parishes have already coordinated with the Philippine National Police to ensure church security, while structural integrity checks were also conducted following recent earthquakes to guarantee the safety of the faithful.
At the Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral, Simbang Gabi Masses begin at 7 p.m., and its Misa de Aguinaldo starts at 4 a.m. Some parishes in towns start as early as 3:30 a.m. or at 4:30 a.m.
The Archdiocese reiterated its call for proper dress inside churches, reminding the faithful that worship attire should reflect the sacredness of the celebration.
“Follow lang kita sang rules. Wear decent clothes because we are receiving the Lord and we are going to meet the Lord. Dapat i-angut ta man ang aton nga bayo sa okasyon nga aton ginatambongan,” Colada said.
For women, acceptable attire includes collared blouses or shirts, long sleeves, skirts or dresses below the knee, and unfitted jeans or slacks.
For men, recommended clothing includes t-shirts or polo shirts, long sleeves, and pants or slacks.
The Masses will culminate on Christmas Day, December 25./PN
