Filipino Catholics celebrate Simbang Gabi

The choir sings during a recent Mass for Simbang Gabi, a nine-day novena leading up to Christmas, at St. James Church in Falls Church. MATT RIEDL | CATHOLIC HERALD

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Fr. Paul D. Scalia, pastor of St. James Church in Falls Church, takes the offeratory gifts during Mass for Simbang Gabi. MATT RIEDL | CATHOLIC HERALD

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Mass is celebrated for Simbang Gabi at St. Philip Church in Falls Church. MATT RIEDL | CATHOLIC HERALD

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Since the 16th century, the people of the Philippines have celebrated Simbang Gabi — the custom of attending Mass on each of the nine days leading up to Christmas. The tradition is alive and well in the Diocese of Arlington, where numerous parishes, including Christ the Redeemer Church in Sterling and St. Philip and St. James churches in Falls Church, celebrated Simbang Gabi this year. 

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