They say that if you are able to complete the nine morning masses (Misa de Gallo), whatever you wish for will come true. Too bad I missed one day. I wasn’t able to go to church yesterday; not because I forgot to, but because the alarm clock didn’t go off. Yes, blame it on the alarm clock. I’m really determined to complete the nine mornings, that I even adjusted my schedule at work. I even went home early from our Christmas Party, so that I can wake up early for the mass. When I got home, I set the alarm clock on at 2:30 am so that I would have ample time to prepare. But the stupid alarm clock had a mind of its own, that it preferred to be silent. Or did it go off and I just didn’t hear it because I was sleeping like rock? I must admit I was really tired and lacked sleep that day. Plus, I drank two bottles of beer during our Christmas Party. Maybe… Hmmm… I’d prefer the alarm-clock theory.
Okay, so I wasn’t able to attend the second Misa de Gallo last Sunday. I was disappointed; nevertheless, I was able to go to Pitalo that day. When I woke up, I was surprised to read Keith’s text message saying he wanted to go to Pitalo Church with me. And without any hesitation I said yes. It’s a well known church in San Fernando for its miraculous San Vicente Ferrer. They say that when you get there, you should light some candles, pray and say your wish three times for it to come true. Keith also said that people, who lost their love ones like due to tragedy or something, usually go there; pray and wish that they’d be found.
After passing three provinces and 30 minutes travel later, we finally arrived. I was expecting a big church, more like Sto. Niño and Sto. Rosaryo church, instead it was a humble one knowing what it was known for. Not really that big but once you get inside you’ll be amazed. From the ceiling to the wall, you’ll find paintings of divine images. For me, it’s kinda like the Sistine Chapel but the smaller and Pinoy version of it. We lighted some candles, prayed, and made our wish. I’m glad Keith brought me there. It was a wonderful experience, to think it was an impromptu.
Today is the third Misa de Gallo. My mom and I woke up late, so we decided to hear mass at Pardo Church, which is near our place. I don’t know why for some reason I choose to park at Holy Cross School’s basketball court, when there was a parking space right in front of the Blessed Virgin Mary’s grotto. Unmindful of anything bad that would happen; we got out of the car and went to hear mass. After the mass ended, we got back to the car and were surprised to see papers scattered inside. I instantly realized that it was ransacked. The robbers took my bag with my mp4 in it. On the other hand, the car’s stereo, the 1 GB flash disks and the automatic tire inflator were still there. Good thing nothing really important or precious was inside my bag. I was shaken by what happen. I didn’t expect that of all places it would happen within the church vicinity or inside a school’s basketball court.
So will I still continue the remaining six early morning masses? Yes, my conviction to attend the Misa de Gallo is still there. Even if I had a traumatic experience and wouldn’t be able to complete the nine mornings to make a wish, the important thing is I tried. Besides, it’s more of the preparation you make for the coming Christmas day that matters. Who knows, what I long for is just what He might have planned for me. Then I may not even need to wish for it anymore.
***** Amen!
You're never too old to ride one
17 years ago
