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Simbang Gabi ("Blessing Mass") gathers people from across Western Washington.  The highlight of this celebration is the blessing of parols (star-shaped lanterns) which symbolize the light of Christ, guiding us on our Advent journey. Our own Lita McBride, with Marie Cadungug, carries a beautiful Filipino cloth which will be placed over the altar for the celebration of the Eucharist. During the Gloria, parols descend from the oculus. The descent of the parols captures everyone's attention. The assembly joins in singing Mary's song of thanksgiving, the Magnificat. After the homily, the coordinators of the Simbang Gabi novena from across the Archdiocese come forward with their parols for a special blessing. Gift bearers represented some of the many different cultures that come together in the Catholic community of Western Washington. This celebration is all about community. The Filipino children's choir under the direction of Carmen Pelayre and Ella Rosana provided marvelous music for this celebration. At the conclusion of Mass, members of the community presented Archbishop Brunett with a lei.  The young man who leads them carries an image of San Lorenzo Ruiz, patron saint of the Philippines.