Attending Misa de Gallo is a tradition for most of us Filipinos. In Cebu, the midnight mass is not so much different from the other localities. Cebuanos also believe that if you complete the nine-day novena, you'll be granted one wish.
Anyways, Everything Cebu lists down the no-nos in attending the Simbang Gabi from a Cebuano P.O.V.
1.
Cebuanos give credit to people who show decency. During Simbang Gabi, Cebuanos do not expect girls to wear shorts or skirts that are three inches above the knees because revealing too much skin in a place like the church is unexcusable. Misa de Gallo is holy and should be treated as such.
2.
Because Misa de Gallo is packed with people who want to observe the traditions, the number of chairs inside the church or even outside the church is not enough for mass attendees. Over the years, people make sure to bring stools or foldable chairs to avoid standing for the whole duration of the mass. You too should keep this in mind.
3.
The Misa de Gallo is filled with sleepy heads who forced themselves to stay awake for the celebration. If you don't want to scare people away, don't put on too much make up. It's early in the morning and almost everyone doesn't care what they look like anymore as long as they can attend the rooster's mass.
4.
Better be prepared. Bring a jacket, umbrella or fan just in case it gets cold or hot inside or outside the church. You can't expect the weather to coordinate with the celebration so it's a must to bring these items.
5.
If it's not your first time to attend Misa de Gallo, you must have learned your lesson the hard way before. You must have found yourself not hearing the homily because you're too far from the altar basically because you arrived late. So, as usual...don't be late.
6.
It's good to have company during Misa de Gallo. However, it has become a common notion that when you're with your friends, you just can't keep silent wherever you are. Make the church an exemption. Keep silent. You're inside the church to pray and not talk about issues in your life.
7.
Don't bring a lot of money or jewelry. What you need is a couple of bills for the offertory and perhaps for breakfast.
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