Simbang Gabi, FACC Christmas party roll out this week in Charlotte
By Susan Palmes-Dennis Rockingham, North Carolina—It’s going to be a busy, meaningful and fun-filled weekend ahead for the Filipino-American community of the Carolinas with two events lined up for their calendar. The first will be the annual Simbang Gabi (Night Mass) at St. Thomas Aquinas Church at 7 pm, according to Joiee Apilat Arrojado. Fr. Raymond Ekosse, parochial vicar of the St. Thomas Aquinas Church will officiate the Mass and light refreshments will be served afterward. Proceeds of a bake sale of delicious delicacies and desserts will pay for the acquisition of the St. Thomas Aquinas Church sound systems. The Simbang Gabi is a cherished Filipino Christmas tradition. In the Philippines, the Simbang Gabi starts at 4 am on Dec. 16 and will be held every 4 am until December 24. Catholic churches in the Charlotte area tweak this tradition by holding one hour Masses. Filipino songs will be sung during the Mass at St. Thomas Aquinas Church and it will be the second time that M