Thousands of Filipino faithful transformed the solemn atmosphere of St. Peter’s Basilica into a vibrant celebration of faith as they gathered for the Simbang Gabi (Dawn Mass) on December 21, 2025.
The Mass, presided over by Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, drew pilgrims from across Italy and neighboring European countries. The event marked a significant moment for the Filipino diaspora, celebrating a cherished tradition at the very heart of the Catholic Church.
Whose Plan Are You Following?
In a warm and deeply pastoral homily, Cardinal Tagle challenged the congregation to reflect on their priorities under the theme, "Whose Plan Are You Following?"
The Cardinal noted that while many people spend months planning for Christmas, focusing on discounts, holiday menus, and social media presence, they often overlook the most important plan of all.
"There is nothing inherently wrong with making plans," Cardinal Tagle said. "But we must ask: Are we only planning for ourselves? Are we ignoring God’s plan?"
Drawing from the lives of the "original Christmas cast," the Cardinal pointed to the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Joseph as models of radical obedience.
He explained that both had their own humble plans for life, but they were willing to "demote" those plans to make room for the Incarnation of the Divine Word.
"We were not created just to accumulate money, followers, or things," the Cardinal reminded the faithful. "We were created for the plan of God: to be with Him."
'Smugglers of Faith'
Following the liturgy, Marisa Gornal, Coordinator for Simbang Gabi 2025, delivered a heartfelt message of gratitude. She poignantly echoed Pope Francis’ description of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) as 'smugglers of faith,' celebrating their role in carrying the light of the Gospel across borders.
"We are diligent workers for the Lord, strengthening the spread of His Word through our service to others and the Church," Gornal stated, noting that this year marks the seventh day of the novena held at the Basilica.
The coordinator expressed profound thanks to Cardinal Tagle for his unwavering support and to the diplomatic corps, including Philippine Ambassador to Italy Neal Imperial and Ambassador to the Holy See Myla Grace Macahilig.
Special recognition was also given to the Sentro Filipino Chaplaincy and the various lay organizations that collaborated to ensure the success of the celebration during this Jubilee Year.
A Global Witness
The event highlighted the role of the Filipino community as a missionary force in Europe. As the Basilica echoed with the hymns of the Isang Tinig Choir, the celebration served as a powerful reminder that even in a "wounded world" and amidst the "bustle of the digital age," the simple, steadfast faith of a people can bring the "Word into life."
The Simbang Gabi at the Vatican remains one of the most visible expressions of the "Digital Mission" and cultural evangelization, bridging the traditions of the Philippines with the universal mission of the Holy See.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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