From 16 to 18 December 2025, the Apostolic Vicariate of Southern Arabia (AVOSA) welcomed Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, on the occasion of the Simbang Gabi celebrations, that are hosted in all the parishes of the Vicariate.

Simbang Gabi is a traditional nine-day novena of Masses celebrated by Filipino Catholics from 15 to 23 December in preparation for Christmas. Dating back to the 17th century, it expresses joyful anticipation of Christ’s coming.

As a special indult granted by the Holy See for the Filipino faithful, during Simbang Gabi the Gloria is sung even though the liturgies take place in Advent, and priests wear white vestments instead of the usual violet, highlighting the joy and hope that mark these celebrations.

The Cardinal presided at the Simbang Gabi Mass in Dubai on Tuesday, 16 December, and in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday, 17 December. Tens of thousands of faithful gathered for the occasion, filling the church and its surrounding premises, as well as the external parking areas.

In his homily in Abu Dhabi, the Cardinal reflected on preparation for Christmas, reminding the faithful that we are never fully “ready” in human terms, but that becoming certain of God’s love is what truly prepares our hearts, because Christmas is ultimately about the love of God for humanity.

In Dubai, he met the Parish Council of St. Mary’s Church and representatives of the Filipino community. Through open dialogue with leaders of various groups and ministries, Cardinal Tagle was able to encounter more closely the reality lived by Catholics in this region, marked by cultural diversity, mobility, and a strong sense of faith.

During his stay, Cardinal Tagle also visited the headquarters of the Apostolic Vicariate in Abu Dhabi, where he met the parish priests of AVOSA together with the priests of St. Joseph Parish and the Bishop’s House.

The dialogue was intense and heartfelt: the Cardinal listened attentively to presentations on the pastoral life of the Vicariate, its challenges, and its priorities, and responded to questions, particularly regarding collaboration between the Dicastery for Evangelization and the Vicariate.

Throughout the visit, Cardinal Tagle repeatedly conveyed the closeness of the Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, made tangible through his presence, his participation in key pastoral moments, and his words of encouragement. His visit was experienced by many as a true Christmas gift and a sign of communion with the universal Church.

The days of Simbang Gabi, marked by prayer, joy, and fraternity, highlighted once again the richness of a Church made up of people from many nations, united in faith—a joyful polyphony that continues to witness to the Gospel in Southern Arabia.