On Sunday Dec. 15, at 4:30 p.m., Rome time, Pope Francis will celebrate Mass with the Filipino community in Rome. He has a connection with them, since he was able to visit their country in 2015.
It will be an Aguinaldo Mass, a very important tradition from the Philippines, and the very first time Pope Francis will celebrate it. However, it will be the fourth time it is held inside St. Peter's Basilica.
The Aguinaldo Masses are celebrated for nine consecutive days leading up until Christmas. It is one of the most important Christmas traditions in the Philippines.
The rest of the Masses will be at Santa Pudenziana Basilica in Rome, which is home to the Filipino community.
It will be a good way to remember the season of Christmas by incorporating various cultural traditions. The Vatican is doing their part with the Nativity Scene and Christmas tree which will meet all the pilgrims as they enter St. Peter's Basilica.
Melissa Butz
