Sights & Sounds: Hundreds gather in Union for beautiful Simbang Gabi Mass
During the nine days before Christmas, Filipino Catholics across the Archdiocese of Newark and throughout the world have been observing the devotion known as Simbang Gabi, or “Nine Masses.” The tradition reflects not only a love for the Blessed Virgin Mary and a desire to prepare for the Nativity of Jesus, but also a strong sense of community.
On Dec. 19, hundreds of worshippers gathered at Saint Michael the Archangel Parish in Union, NJ, for a Simbang Gabi Mass celebrated by Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., Archbishop of Newark. He was joined by the pastor of Saint Michael’s, Monsignor Anselm Nwaorgu, along with many other priests from the archdiocese.
In his homily, Cardinal Tobin encouraged worshippers to live in hope. “That’s what we do in the nine days before Christmas. At least in the northern hemisphere, this is the darkest time of the year. We look, and we wait for the light. We hope in the Lord. We trust in His word.”
The cardinal later added:
“Brothers and sisters, the light in the darkness says this: No matter what we think is going to happen to us, God is here. God’s will will be done. And we have the hope that opens, one day at a time, the way to life eternal. May your remaining days of Advent be a time when you watch for the Lord and hope in His word, so that you can be witnesses to Him in your families, in your workplace, and wherever God may send you.”
One family
After Mass, the community gathered to share food and fellowship—another essential aspect of the Simbang Gabi tradition.
Monsignor Nwaorgu expressed his gratitude for Cardinal Tobin’s presence. He also told Jersey Catholic that the celebration was important not only for the Filipino members of the community but also for the entire parish. “We have a very diverse community,” Msgr. Nwaorgu said. “Everything that the different groups in our parish celebrate, we celebrate together. In this way our diversity has become a strength, so that we have unity in diversity. By the grace of God, the people of our parish have become a family.”
To view more images of the Simbang Gabi Mass at Saint Michael the Archangel, click HERE.
Each week, Jersey Catholic features the rich and inspiring “Sights & Sounds” of the Archdiocese of Newark. Visit us regularly to explore our vibrant parishes, sacred artworks, historic landmarks, and the faithful men, women and youth who bring our Catholic community to life.
Featured image: Worshippers gather with Cardinal Tobin for Simbang Gabi Mass at Saint Michael the Archangel in Union, NJ, on Dec. 19. (Photos by Cheryl Thompson / St. Michael the Archangel and John Touhey / Archdiocese of Newark)
