December 12th is the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, patroness of the Americas, unborn children, and the New Evangelization.

Our Lady of Guadalupe is unlike any other apparition of the Blessed Virgin Mary. First, it is the only apparition where Our Lady left a miraculous image of herself unmade by human hands. Second, it is the only universally venerated Madonna and Child image where Our Lady appears pregnant instead of holding the Infant Jesus.

The historical story surrounding this Marian apparition is truly fascinating. There are so many details regarding the time period and culture to which the image was revealed that combine to make this a truly significant apparition, not just for the Americas or for the Catholic Church, but for all of humanity.

For Filipino Catholics, Simbang Gabi is a nine day novena of intense preparation for Christmas. The Simbang Gabi originated in the early days of Spanish rule over the Philippines as a practical compromise for farmers, who began work before sunrise to avoid the noonday heat out in the fields. It began in 1669. Priests began to say Mass in the early mornings instead of the evening novenas more common in the rest of the Hispanic world. This cherished Christmas custom eventually became a distinct feature of Philippine culture and became a symbol of sharing

Literally, Simbang Gabi means “night worship” which highlights the traditional pre-dawn hour for this celebration and the sacrificial aspect of rising early to more powerfully prepare for this blessed feast. One prominent symbol used during Simbang Gabi is the “parol” or lantern which symbolizes the star of Bethlehem