The holiday season is just around the corner, and for many people around the world, this is the most wonderful time of the year. One of the most important and highly anticipated religious celebrations during this season is the Novena of Christmas. This nine-day period of prayer, reflection, and preparation for the coming of the Lord is celebrated in many Catholic countries, including the Philippines, Mexico, and Spain.

So, when does the Novena of Christmas begin? The Novena of Christmas starts on December 16 and ends on December 24, which makes it the nine days before the birth of Jesus Christ. This is also known as the “Simbang Gabi” or “Misa de Gallo” which translates to “Rooster’s Mass” in English. It is celebrated early in the morning, usually before or at dawn, and it is meant to symbolize the anticipation and spiritual preparation that the faithful undertake as they await the birth of Jesus.

The origin of the Novena of Christmas can be traced back to the early days of the Christian Church. The tradition began in Rome during the fourth century when the Christian community celebrated a nine-day period of fasting, prayer, and penance in preparation for the celebration of the birth of Christ. This was later adopted by other Catholic countries, and it has since become an important part of their religious and cultural heritage.

In the Philippines, the Novena of Christmas is among the most beloved and widely observed religious traditions. It is a time for Filipinos to gather with their families, attend Mass, light candles, and sing traditional Christmas carols. It is also an opportunity to share their blessings with others, especially the poor and the marginalized.

In Mexico, the Novena of Christmas is called “Las Posadas,” which means “The Inns.” It is a reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s search for lodgings in Bethlehem before the birth of Jesus. For nine nights, people go from house to house, singing carols, reciting prayers, and reenacting the journey of Mary and Joseph. The celebrations culminate on Christmas Eve with a midnight Mass, followed by a feast and fireworks.

In Spain, the Novena of Christmas is known as “La Novena de Aguinaldo,” which means “The Gift-Giving Novena.” It is a time for families and friends to exchange gifts and greetings, much like the tradition of gift-giving during Christmas. The novena is usually celebrated in the evenings, and it includes prayers, hymns, and readings from the Bible.

Overall, the Novena of Christmas is a time of great spiritual significance for Catholics around the world. It is a time to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas, to deepen one’s faith, and to prepare one’s heart for the coming of the Lord. It is also an opportunity to strengthen family ties, build community, and share the joys of the season with others.

As we approach the start of the Novena of Christmas, let us take this opportunity to prepare ourselves spiritually and emotionally for the coming of Christ. Let us open our hearts to the message of hope, love, and peace that He brings. Let us pray for the strength and guidance to live our lives in accordance with His teachings and to be a blessing to others, especially those who are less fortunate.

In conclusion, the Novena of Christmas is a time-honored tradition that has been celebrated by Catholics for centuries. It is a time of prayer, reflection, and preparation, and it marks the start of the most important holiday season of the year. So, when does the Novena of Christmas begin? It begins on December 16, but its true meaning and significance lasts for a lifetime.

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