AGUINALDO MASSES (PHILIPPINES)
The nine-day (novena) Masses in preparation for Christmas begins on December 16. They are called Aguinaldo Masses or Misa de Gallo. Misa de Gallo is Spanish for Mass of the Rooster. The name is apt because the mass take place at dawn (4:30am is the common time) when roosters begin to crow. Aguinaldo is Spanish for gift. It calls to mind the gift of the magi, but above all Jesus who is the gift of God to his people.
For those who can not rise early, there is an alternative, the Simbang Gabi (Mass at night) which often takes place at 8pm. The Simbang Gabi Masses begin in the evening of December 15.
The liturgical color is white, in honor of the Blessed Virgin. The intention of these Masses is the perseverance of the nation in faith. The Glory to God in the Highest is sung as if in anticipation of Christmas.
DECEMBER 17-24
The liturgical readings are more directly concerned with the immediate preparation for Christmas. The message is the mystery of God’s love. The principal personages are John the Baptist, our Lady and St. Joseph.
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