A burning and shining lamp

Today, the traditional dawn Masses, the Misa de Gallo, kick off in the churches in the Philippines and in other countries where there are Filipino communities.

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Cognizant of this unique culture of Filipinos that has inspired Catholics all over the world, Pope Francis celebrated his first Misa de Gallo inside St. Peter's Basilica in 2019.“Pope Francis saw the beauty of this local tradition, that is why he celebrated his first Misa de Gallo,” said Archbishop Jose Palma of Cebu. Whether celebrated in early dawn or at night as anticipated Mass, we see light shining through the darkness as people go to church guided by the parol—the traditional Christmas “star” — or by Christmas lights in different sizes and shapes.