22 December 2005— Philippine Ambassador to Ottawa Jose S. Brillantes reported to Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto G. Romulo that the Philippine Embassy led the Filipino community in celebrating Simbang Gabi in the Canadian capital, continuing the Filipino Christmas tradition of marking the final nine days before the birth of Jesus Christ in solemn mass.

The celebration, which dates back to Spanish times, was held at St. Brigid's Church, an old church in downtown Ottawa of classic baroque design, which has become an icon of the Filipino Catholic community.

"Many associate the Simbang Gabi with bibingka and a nice cup of hot chocolate or coffee to warm against the chill of the pre-dawn air. For others, the religious observance is a time to renew warm friendships and family togetherness," Ambassador Brillantes said. "But above all else, the Simbang Gabi is a time to celebrate the coming of Jesus Christ, an assurance that God wishes to be present in our lives," he added.

The celebration was both festive and solemn, as friends from the Filipino community and the Embassy personnel, together with their families, gathered for mass.   The Embassy staff, led by Ambassador Brillantes, offered gifts to the church during offertory.  Aside from the traditional offerings of flowers, wine and food, the gift bearers brought with them new linen and religious garments for use by the church.   Fr. Pedro Arana, parish priest of St. Brigid's Church, thanked Ambassador Brillantes, the Embassy staff, and the Filipino communities for the offerings, especially for the church garments, which he said, were much needed and most welcome.

"Simbang Gabi has become so much a part of our lives as it has been part of the Christian Family tradition," Ambassador Brillantes said. "I am so happy to have taken part in continuing the tradition in Canada, only proving once again that while we Filipinos may find ourselves in all corners of the globe, our hearts remain with our loved ones in the Philippines, especially during the Christmas season," the Ambassador added. END.
 
 

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