I have lived all my life in the Philippines and as we know it, Christmas season starts in September. Ang hindi ko lang alam, ang Kapaskuhan (the season) ay hindi natatapos sa Epiphany, o yung tinatawag ding 3 Kings. As per the Catholic liturgical calendar (and the impromptu sermon by the Head Servant and Choir Master haha), the season's official end coincides with the feast of the Baptism of the Lord. This year, tumama ang kapistahang ito sa ika-10 ng Enero (kahapon).
I have to admit it felt very awkward to have sung "Joy to the World" for the entrance song and "Ang Pasko ay Sumapit" bilang pangwakas na awit, gayong sa isip ko, malaon nang tapos ang pamimigay ng mga regalo at pagtatago sa mga inaanak. But then, that was what my church says and I will abide. And I did. But really, it felt ridiculously awkward. I think it was comparable to the awkwardness Miss Philippines felt when she was called as Miss Universe. You know you are right but you are thinking about what other people are thinking.
source: www.interaksyon.com
Anyway, today starts the ordinary time in the Church. Christmas songs will be out of season until September. :)
