12.15.21 GSR SIMBANG-GABI-2019.JPG

Members of the Filipino community in Rome approach the altar in the Vatican's St. Peter's Basilica during the offertory procession Dec. 15, 2019, as Pope Francis celebrates the first of the Simbang Gabi, a novena of nighttime or pre-dawn Masses in preparation for Christmas. (CNS/Vatican Media)
Members of the Filipino community in Rome approach the altar in the Vatican's St. Peter's Basilica during the offertory procession Dec. 15, 2019, as Pope Francis celebrates the first of the Simbang Gabi. (CNS/Vatican Media)