LA parishes answer the early wake-up call for Simbang Gabi Masses
At Holy Family Church in Artesia, Simbang Gabi was celebrated before dawn, the Misa de Gallo (Mass of the Rooster) starting at 5 a.m. Every church pew was occupied by mostly Filipino families who anticipated the preparation of Christmas.
Some women wore traditional white clothing from their homeland, while the Knights of Columbus choir wore a Salakót — a traditional Filipino hat — (at least a portrayal of one) hanging from their backs and a colorful bandanna wrapped around their necks as they sang throughout the Mass.
For Kirk Bravo, a young adult attending Holy Family, it was a sacrifice to wake up at 4 a.m. for the early-morning Mass, but it was worth it.