Simbang Gabi Mass celebrated at St John’s Cathedral

On December 20, 2024, the Filipino community in Norwich gathered in celebration of Simbang Gabi at The Cathedral of St John the Baptist. This cherished tradition brought together 350 worshippers for an evening of faith, fellowship, and festivity. 

The Mass, celebrated by Fr. Jude Belnas, was organised by parishioners Jonathan and Jenuary Callejo, who expressed their gratitude for the vibrant turnout to honour such a special tradition. 

Simbang Gabi, a series of nine dawn Masses leading up to Christmas, is a longstanding practice in the Philippines. Its name translates to “Dawn Mass,” though in modern times, it is often celebrated in the evening for convenience. The tradition symbolises the nine months of the Blessed Virgin Mary’s pregnancy and serves as a spiritual preparation for the birth of Jesus Christ.

The devotion is both a religious and cultural celebration, a moment for Filipino communities worldwide to reconnect with their heritage. For many in Norwich and across the Diocese, it’s a chance to rekindle the spirit of Christmas and share the joy of the season with others.

Norwich’s Filipino community is an integral part of the local parish, with over 1,000 members, many of whom work in the healthcare sector. Their dedication to their Catholic faith shines through in their daily lives as they care for the sick and elderly as doctors, nurses, and other health professionals.

During the Mass, the cathedral was filled with the soft glow of Christmas lights, the lilting melodies of traditional Filipino hymns, and the warmth of shared prayers. 

The organisers hope that the success of previous Simbang Gabi Masses will inspire even greater participation in 2025 and beyond. “We warmly welcome all of you to our Simbang Gabi in 2025 and come together as a community to celebrate the season of hope, peace, joy and love” said Jonathan Callejo.

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