As the Christmas season approaches, Catholic churches across the Philippines once again open their doors before sunrise to celebrate one of the Church’s long-standing traditions—the Misa de Aguinaldo.

The Misa de Aguinaldo marks the spiritual countdown to Christmas and can be traced back to the Spanish colonial era. It refers to a series of nine dawn Holy Masses held from December 16 to December 24.

Celebrated as one community, Catholic faithful gathered for the Misa de Aguinaldo at the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu Pilgrim Center.

The first day of the Misa de Aguinaldo was presided over by the Basilica Rector, Rev. Fr. Andres D. Rivera, OSA, together with other Augustinian friars and visiting priests.

The Holy Mass serves as a devotional preparation for the birth of Jesus Christ, honoring the journey of Mary and Joseph in the days leading up to Christmas.

At its heart, the Misa de Gallo emphasizes prayer, sacrifice, devotion, and joyful anticipation. Through the proclamation of the Word of God and the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, the faithful are invited to reflect on God’s promise of salvation and to accompany Mary and Joseph on their journey toward Bethlehem.

Through prayer and the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, the faithful are reminded of Christ’s humble coming into the world and are called to conversion, perseverance, and a renewed commitment to faith and devotion.

Today, the Misa de Aguinaldo continues to be observed across the country, standing as a symbol of faith, resilience, and devotion. More than a ritual, it is a prayerful proclamation of hope, sacrifice, and joyful anticipation of the coming of Jesus Christ. /Caren Itolle