Churches conduct anticipated Masses before Simbang Gabi amid pandemic

Catholic churches nationwide held anticipated Masses on Tuesday ahead of the Simbang Gabi series of dawn Masses, with precautions in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

According to Mariz Umali’s report on “24 Oras,” a total of 300 people were allowed to enter Quiapo Church during the anticipated mass on Tuesday, while 1,500 others were allowed to attend the mass at Plaza Miranda.

An outdoor anticipated Mass was also held at the Bonifacio Shrine near Manila City Hall.

Authorities were present to implement minimum health standards amid the health crisis.

“Ang Simbang Gabi talaga kasi ito ‘yong pinaka hudyat na na pa-Pasko na. ‘Yong parang energy ng mga tao, lalo na ng Katoliko eh talagang nagle-level up. Mas magiging hamon, mas magiging pagsubok sa mga Katoliko na isasabuhay pa ba ito ngayong may pandemic o talagang mas palalalimin mo ‘yong pananampalataya mo,” Quiapo Church parochial vicar Fr. Douglas Badong said.

At Quiapo Church, dawn masses will be held at 4 a.m., 5:15 a.m., and 6:30 a.m. starting December 16, while anticipated masses will be held at 6 p.m., 7:15 p.m., and 8:30 p.m. starting December 15.

“Sundin pa rin talaga ‘yong protocols na hindi nalalabag ‘yong pinapairal nating safety measures sa pagsasabuhay natin ng ating kultura o tradisyon na pagsi-Simbang Gabi,” Badong said.

Meanwhile, in Baclaran Church, a total of 2,000 individuals will be allowed to enter the church premises.

The church also added 200 more volunteer ushers and security forces to make sure that safety measures such as social distancing and wearing of face masks are observed throughout the mass. — Ma. Angelica Garcia/BM, GMA News