Sagrada Familia

Today is the Feast of the Holy Family, in honor of Jesus of Nazareth, his mother, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and his foster father, Saint Joseph, as a family.

Image of the Holy Family of our BEC household.

CHRISTMAS BELEN

Belen is a Filipino traditional Christmas symbol. A tableau depicting the birth of Jesus Christ in a manger with Mother Mary and Joseph. Optional are the Three Kings, Angels, the shepherds, animals and star.

Belens can be found displayed in homes, churches, schools, hospitals, office buildings, parks and all possible places from the beginning of the Advent until the end.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!

Belen inside the church of the Parish of the Last Supper of Our Lord.

PUTO BUMBONG AND BIBINGKA

Christmas Season in the Philippines kicks off at the Start of Simbang Gabi, and is celebrated with much fanfare in churches throughout the country.

  

Traditional breakfast of the faithful after the Mass are "Puto Bumbong" (purple colored native delicacy made of steamed heirloom glutinous rice inserted in a small bamboo tubes) and "Bibingka" (Rice cake cooked in a banana leaves covered terracotta container with charcoal fire on the top and in the bottom) both with traditional toppings of margarine, muscovado sugar, cheese, or grated coconut. Free hot "tsaa" (tea) is a bonus.

Traditional food stalls

Preparation and cooking of Puto Bumbong.

Cooking the Bibingka.

Hearty breakfast after the "Simbang Gabi".

Related post: Simbang Gabi