Misa de Gallo

We have traditions which other Christian sects do not have. Some can be found only in specific places. As the only Catholic nation in Asia, we have beautiful traditions which amaze even Catholics in Europe and America. First, the Sto. Nino fiesta on the the third Sunday of January called sinulog in Cebu, ati-Atihan in Kalibo Aklan and Dinagyang in IloIlo (4th Sunday of January). Second, the Flores de Mayo and the Santa Cruzan festival which has a distinctive Pilipino touch. Third, the Misa de Gallo or Mass when the rooster (Gallo) crows. This means attending Mass before the break of dawn for nine mornings beginning December 16 to the 24th. Very few regions follow this tradition as a Pilipino for simple reasons. In Europe and America the snow is already knee deep and it is very very cold beginning December one. The nine day Misa de Gallo period is similar to the Novena or nine day prayers/masses before the celebration of the GKK/Parochial/Diocesan fiesta. Here, the 10th say of December 25 which is the day of Birth of Jesus Christ. This is the only time when parents and their children can bond together for nine successive mornings. We ask the parents to continue this lovely tradition which we inherited from our forefathers 400 years ago.