Diocesan Commission of Simbang Gabi

In the Philippines, the Parol, a simple star shaped lantern traditionally made of bamboo and paper is one of the popular Christmas symbols. It ushers in, the start of the Christmas season. In the early days of the Christianization of the Philippines, the farmers used this lighted lantern on the way to church for the Misa de Gallo (Roster’s mass). This special mass gets its name from the traditional celebration at dawn when the rosters start crowing. It is held for nine consecutive days in a novena of masses. The parol also symbolizes the light of the star that guided the shepherds and the three kings to the manger.