SIMBANG GABI CONCLUDES AT THE CATHEDRAL OF ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST KL

Kuala Lumpur | 24 December 2024 - The ninth and final day of the Simbang Gabi was celebrated at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist earlier this morning, marking the conclusion of this cherished nine-day Filipino tradition. The Mass brought together the Embassy, led by Ambassador Maria Angela Ponce, and Filipinos from various community groups who gathered to commemorate the meaningful occasion.

Reverend Father Ferdinand Magimay officiated the Mass and delivered a homily that emphasized the culmination of the community's spiritual journey leading up to the birth of Christ. His inspiring words encouraged everyone to reflect on the deeper meaning of this sacred season. Reverend Father Gerard Steve Theraviam, Parish Priest of the Cathedral, expressed his gratitude to all the volunteers and attendees who contributed to the success of the Masses.

In her message, Ambassador Ponce thanked Reverend Father Gerard and Reverend Deacon Jonathan Andrew Rao for con-celebrating the Masses and providing spiritual guidance throughout the Simbang Gabi season. She also thanked the organizers at St. John the Evangelist Cathedral for their dedication and hard work in making the Simbang Gabi a success. Ambassador Ponce further recognized the Filipino community organizations that sponsored and attended the novena Masses, including the Fire and Rescue Association Philippines, the Kinship Humanity Aid and Rescue Team, the Filipino Malaysian Cultural Sports Community and Training Centre, Filipino Helping Hands Malaysia, BIBAK Kuala Lumpur, Fruittigies Helping Hands, El Shaddai KL Chapter, and Tahanang Pilipino. Their support truly reflected the Filipino spirit of bayanihan and spiritual devotion.

Ambassador Ponce also acknowledged the beautiful parols displayed in the church, created by the Filipino community during an event by the MWO-OWWA KL. These parols symbolized the light and hope of the season. She also highlighted other cherished Filipino Christmas traditions such as the Belen and Noche Buena, emphasizing their significance as integral elements of the Filipino Christmas celebration.

To conclude the Mass, the attendees cheerfully sang the classic Filipino Christmas songs “Ang Pasko ay Sumapit” and “Pasko Na Naman,” filling the atmosphere with festive joy and camaraderie. This was followed by a simple salo-salo, where the attendees shared a meal of sopas, pandesal, pansit, empanada, biko, and many other Filipino favorites. END.