What is Misa del Gallo (Rooster’s Mass) in Spain?
What is Misa de Gallo? How is it observed in Spain? Let’s find out!
If you’re traveling in Spain at Christmas time, you’re in for a real treat!
With Christmas markets, holiday festivals, and events going on all around the country, there is always something going on during December and early January.
One such festive ritual is attending Misa del Gallo, an integral part of Christmas in Spain and other Spanish-speaking countries.
In this post, we’ll go over everything you need to know about Misa del Gallo—including what Misa del Gallo is, how it started, what happens during the celebration, and how other countries observe Misa del Gallo.
What is Misa del Gallo?
Misa del Gallo is a traditional Catholic mass. Since Spain is a relatively religious country, the mass is a cherished part of the Christmas season.
Typically held at midnight on Christmas Eve, the mass marks the beginning of Christmas celebrations which extend until Epiphany (Three Kings Day) on January 6th.
Overall, the mass is a time for reflection, prayer, and celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. Attendees typically sing traditional Christmas songs. In addition, the church retells the story of Christ’s birth with a Nativity scene.
In addition to the religious significance of the mass, Misa del Gallo is a time for families to come together. Many families have a large meal before or after the mass. It’s also common for people to exchange gifts on Christmas Eve, although many families wait until Three Kings Day.
Why is it Called Misa del Gallo?
You’re probably wondering what Misa del Gallo means in English. The Spanish name “Misa del Gallo” translates to “Rooster’s Mass” in English!
But, why is it called the Rooster’s Mass?
There are a few guesses as to how the traditional midnight mass got its name. In this section, we’ll look at some of the reasons.
Influence of Sixto III
The name “Misa del Gallo” or “Rooster’s Mass” may have originated in the time of Pope Sixtus III, who was the Pope of the Roman Catholic Church from 432 to 440.
During his appointment as Pope, Sixtus III ordered the construction of the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore. One of the four major basilicas in Rome, it’s still used by the current pope!
Legend says that when he was a bishop, Sixtus III heard a rooster crowing at midnight in the exact spot where the basilica stands. He believed this was a sign from God to build a church there in honor of the Virgin Mary.
The Rooster in the Bible
The rooster is often portrayed as a watchful guardian and herald of the morning. Some of the following theories (whether biblical or cultural interpretations) may have contributed to the animal’s association with the Christmas story.
- The name “Misa del Gallo” may come from the fact that a rooster was the first animal to witness the birth of Jesus. He announced the coming to the world of the Messiah “ad galli cantus” (when the rooster crowed).
- Some say the night of Jesus’ birth was the only time a rooster crowed at midnight.
- It is believed that shepherds used roosters to keep watch over their flocks at night.
- Obviously, roosters crow to signal the coming of dawn!
- Others insist the Church of Saint Peter in Gallicantu in Jerusalem, a church that took its name from how Jesus warned Peter that he would deny him three times before the rooster crowed, gave the idea for the name.
- In the Bible, a rooster crowed three times after Peter denied knowing Jesus.
Christmas Dinner
A less credible theory for how Misa del Gallo got its name is food-related. Since some countries have a roast rooster or chicken on their Christmas Eve dinner menu, it must be how the mass received its name…right?
What Happens During Misa del Gallo?
Misa del Gallo is a beloved Christmas tradition, but what happens during the mass?
The Misa del Gallo is a solemn and reverent occasion, with a central focus on the birth of Jesus.
Church altars are usually adorned with poinsettias, candles, and other Christmas decorations such as Christmas trees and twinkle lights. (If you don’t normally attend church, be sure to stop in during the Advent season to see the festive decor.)
A nativity scene including figurines of the Virgin Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus is prominently displayed in the church.
The service begins at midnight on Christmas Eve (Nochebuena in Spanish). Families, friends, and entire communities gather inside the church to celebrate the birth of Christ.
During the service, the priest carries a figure of baby Jesus in a procession around the church before placing Him in the manger.
The Eucharist (communion) is an essential part of the late-night mass. After the priest consecrates the bread and wine, the attendants will distribute them to the congregation. (Please note that only Catholics may partake in Eucharist).
The singing of traditional Christmas carols, or villancicos, is an integral part of the mass. Congregants often sing these in a call-and-response format, responding to the choir.
Most services conclude with the singing of Silent Night (Noche de Paz) and a final blessing from the priest.
How Does Spain Celebrate Misa del Gallo?
Since Misa del Gallo is a significant event in the lives of many Spaniards, they celebrate it with great enthusiasm.
Here are some of the ways that Spain observes the Misa del Gallo:
Midnight Mass
The most important part of Misa de Gallo (or La Misa del Gallo) is attending Midnight Mass. Catholic churches all over Spain hold the mass, and it’s customary for families to attend together.
Prior to attending mass, some locals light small oil lamps, candles, or other festive lights in their homes.
Traditional Food
After attending Midnight Mass, many families enjoy a meal with traditional Spanish dishes like roast lamb, stuffed turkey, and seafood soup. Sweets such as turrón (nougat) and polvorones (Spanish shortbread cookies) are common.
Nativity Scenes
Many families in Spain have a small nativity scene, or Belen, in their homes. These include figurines of Mary, Joseph, the baby Jesus, the Three Wise Men, and other characters from the Christmas story.
Christmas Decorations
Spanish streets are full of lights, garlands, and other festive decorations during the holiday season. The most famous Christmas decoration in Spain is the Poinsettia flower (flor de Pascua).
The Celebrations Continue
In Spain, the Christmas season is not over after Misa del Gallo. The festivities continue until January 6th, Three Kings’ Day (Día de los Reyes Magos). On this day, children receive gifts from the Three Wise Men, and families enjoy Roscón de Reyes, a traditional sweet bread.
Where Else is Misa del Gallo Observed?
Misa del Gallo is not only celebrated in Spain, but also in many former Spanish colonies. In this section, we’ll explore two regions that observe Misa del Gallo.
Misa del Gallo in Latin America
In Latin America, Misa del Gallo is an important time for faith and family.
Mexicans attend “Misa de Gallo” on Christmas Eve in Mexico.
In Venezuela, it’s part of a series of Masses called “Misa de Aguinaldo” that are held at dawn for nine days, culminating on Christmas Eve.
Bolivians attend Christmas Eve Mass before gathering for a meal featuring a bowl of picana del pollo (traditional chicken stew).
In Chile, the Christmas Even mass is “Misa de los Pastores” or “Shepherds’ Mass.”
Philippines’ Simbang Gabi
In the Philippines, Misa del Gallo is known as “Simbang Gabi” or “Night Mass.”
In a tradition that dates back to the Spanish colonial period, the church holds a nine-day novena of masses beginning on December 16 and culminating on Christmas Eve. There’s also a reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s search for lodgings called the “Panunulúyan.”
Many Filipinos attend mass early in the morning before going to work or school. It’s a way to start the day with a sense of purpose and gratitude while honoring their faith.
Like in many other countries, families often gather together to share a meal and exchange gifts.
History of La Misa del Gallo
The Mass of the Rooster has been an integral part of Spanish Christmas traditions for centuries!
But, how did Misa del Gallo start?
Most authoritative voices attribute the origin of the tradition to Pope Sixtus III in the 5th Century. They say that he established the midnight vigil “ad galli cantus,” referring to the moment when the new day begins and the Messiah was born.
Yet, some say the midnight mass was first mentioned by Egeria, a Galician woman, on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. She chronicled how the early Catholics held a midnight vigil in Bethlehem in the 4th Century.
Misa del Gallo in Spain: FAQs
What is the purpose of the Misa del Gallo?
Misa del Gallo (or Misa de Gallo) is a midnight mass celebrated on Christmas Eve in Spain and many other Spanish-speaking countries. The purpose of the mass is to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ along with family and friends. Misa del Gallo is one of the most important religious masses in Spain and is attended by many people.
What is Misa de Gallo in English?
Misa de Gallo translates to “Rooster’s Mass” or “Mass of the Rooster” in English. While the name has many purported origins, it’s typically agreed that the name comes from the tradition of roosters crowing to announce the new day, signaling the start of the mass.
How do you pronounce Misa de Gallo?
Misa de Gallo is pronounced as “mee-sah day gahy-yoh” in Spanish. The “ll” in “Gallo” is pronounced like the “y” in “yes”. Misa del Gallo (another spelling) is pronounced “mee-sah dehl gahy-yoh.”
What time is Misa del Gallo?
The Rooster’s Mass is typically held at midnight on Christmas Eve. That being said, in recent years, the time of the mass has become more flexible. Hence, if you’d like to attend Misa del Gallo during your Christmas holidays in Spain, plan ahead.
Conclusion: How to Attend Misa de Gallo in Spain
The Misa del Gallo is a beautiful and meaningful Christmas custom in Spain. If you are spending your holidays in Spain, you can partake in the festivities by attending the mass at any cathedral or church! Churches typically have a sign posted outside with mass times so that you can plan ahead.
Now, you just need to brush up on how to say Merry Christmas in Spanish! ¡Feliz Navidad!
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