The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) released adjustments to the traditional celebration of the Misa de Gallo or Simbang Gabi amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, the CBCP, that the adjustments in Simbang Gabi (December 16 to 24) is only during this time of health crisis.
“These adjustments are done because of the great number of mass-goers during the Simbang Gabi, and the limitations in the number of mass-goers due to the strict social distancing demanded by the IATF as a safety protocol in the prevention of the spread of the virus,” CBCP said.
“It is our great desire to help our faithful find spiritual nourishment, which they so desire and need, from the liturgical celebrations of the church during this season in this time of the pandemic,” it added.
CBCP president and Davao Archbishop Romulo Valles, who signed the guidelines, said the Simbang Gabi might start as early as 6 pm for the anticipated mass, while the morning mass could begin at 6 am.
Churches were also instructed to coordinate with local government units to conduct more Simbang Gabi masses in large venues to accommodate more people and, at the same time, observe physical distancing.
The CBCP also urged holding online liturgical celebrations for those who could not leave their homes and attend the masses physically.
CBCP releases adjustments to Simbang Gabi amid pandemic
The Vigil Mass of Christmas may be celebrated from 6 pm on Christmas Eve, the CBCP said.
CBCP added the dawn mass of Christmas may also be celebrated in the early morning of December 25.
They also urged families to bring their family image of the infant Jesus during Simbang Gabi since kissing or touching images is still not allowed.
“In the midst of the meaningful and popular Filipino symbols of the Advent and Christmas seasons, it is important not to lose sight of the basic components of the celebration, namely the Word of God and Holy Communion,” it said.
“The celebration of Christmas may be different this year. We will not have the same frenzy and stressful preparations that we had before the pandemic. But we pray and help our faithful to see the heart and the essence of the season in the simple, sober, silent but strong and loving truth of the God who comes to us in Jesus’ incarnation.”