SIMBANG GABI 2008: Part 3 The Fatima G Chapel

The Cross at the Center of the Altar

Previously our Parish was composed of about 31 Chapels but due to pastoral generosity of our Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Virgilio 'Verge' Ramos now the Parish of Sto. Rosario had given birth to 3 other parishes. Well, at least the 2 others are still in Quasi status but on their way to become a full parish. Thus, instead of serving all 31 Chapels, now we only have 9 to serve.

Seminarian Daniel of the Diocese of Malolos, from Immaculate Conception Seminary in Guiginto, Bulacan

It made things easier for priests and at the same time large areas that became parishes are receiving more immediate attention from their new parish priest with systematic organization for catechesis and the celebrations of the Sacraments. Even the Church buildings have started receiving the much needed reconstruction and beautification.

The choir members and some members of the Apostolada ng Panalangin [Apostleship of Prayers] in white clothes and veils.

During the time when the parish was still intact, the Chapel of Fatima G was entrusted to the care of the Jesuits of Novaliches where they have their Novitiate House. The Jesuit novices and religious did a wonderful job and they were so loved by the people. They enliven the liturgical music, they organized and energized the youth, they visited the people house to house so that they became part of the life and culture of the people.

Seminarian Kent of the Diocese of Malolos from Immaculate Conception Seminary in Guiginto, Bulacan.

However, due to the pastoral divisions of the Mother Parish into several local churches, the Fr. Verge decided to resume full authority of the administration and apostolates of the Chapel thus, we gave it more attention this Simbang Gabi. The people in this area is so strong in faith and they are coming to worship God in great number to the point that the Chapel is always booming with people both inside and outside the House of Prayer.

The Chapel is very simple and humble but it is quite large and it was overflowing with people in and around the Chapel. With such a great number of people this lone Lay Minister is precious in the sight of the priest and of the people of God. The former position that only a priest or deacon can give Holy Communion is impractical and cruel during Simbang Gabi and ordinary Sundays in the Philippines when we priests have to celebrate several Masses in kilometers away barrios.

The Apostolada ng Panalangin so devout and elegant during the Mass, not mentioning that these ladies are the ones cleaning the Chapel before and after the Mass. The boys happily operating the Projector so that the people can participte in singing.

The elegant angels on earth, the counterpart of the angels carrying the incense and those serving in front of the Throne of the Ancient of Days.

The angels carrying the bell and the Cross - the symbol of the slained Lamb