Category: People and Places

As the Advent season draws to a close, the 4th Sunday of Advent holds a unique and profound significance, particularly for Filipino migrants living in Austria. This final Sunday before Christmas emphasizes the themes of love, hope, and preparation, resonating deeply with the experiences of those far from home but bound by faith and tradition. The Meaning of the 4th Sunday of Advent Advent, a Latin term meaning “coming,” is a four-week period of spiritual preparation to celebrate Christ’s birth. Each Sunday carries a distinct theme represented by the Advent…

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Vienna, Austria,18 December 2024 – The United Nations community in Vienna, in partnership with the League of Arab States, marked Arabic Language Day with a vibrant celebration at the Vienna International Centre (VIC) Rotunda. The event showcased the Arabic language’s rich cultural, linguistic, and artistic heritage, recognized as a cornerstone of knowledge, civilization, and creative expression throughout history. The ceremony began with opening remarks from H.E. Ambassador Salah Boucha, Head of Mission of the League of Arab States in Vienna, followed by addresses from Ms. Ghada Waly, Director-General of UNOV…

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The Filipino Catholic community in Vienna gathered on the evening of 15 December 2024, to mark the start of Simbang Gabi. This cherished tradition signifies the beginning of the nine-day novena Masses leading up to Christmas. Unlike the Philippines, where Simbang Gabi is celebrated at dawn and known as Misa de Gallo (Rooster’s Mass), the faithful in Vienna adapt the schedule by holding the Holy Masses in the evening. This unique tradition has brought Filipino Catholics together in the Austrian capital for years, fostering faith and cultural identity. The celebration…

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Vienna, Austria – The Filipino community in Vienna embraced the spirit of Christmas with joy and creativity during a recently concluded Parol-making workshop led by the Rambak Austria group. The event, celebrated with an outpouring of enthusiasm, successfully brought together guests and friends in a warm celebration of Filipino culture and holiday traditions. The highlight of the gathering, the Parol workshop, proved to be an enjoyable and memorable experience for all attendees. Participants eagerly crafted their own Parols—traditional Filipino Christmas lanterns symbolizing hope and light—under the guidance of the Rambak…

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In a heartwarming act of solidarity, the Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary of Manaoag, supported by the Through Mary to Jesus (TMTJ) devotional group and Foundation, responded to a call for aid by the Parish of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Töllergasse, 1210 Vienna—the initiative aimed to provide winter clothes for those affected by the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. This collaborative effort resulted in collecting numerous sacks of winter clothing, which will soon be transported to the war-torn country. The distribution will be facilitated by established contact…

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The PGG Cherubim, a talented group of young performers, is set to hold its debut concert, Psalty and Cherubim, this Saturday, 14 December, at 3:00 p.m. in Keplerplatz Church. This inspiring event highlights these children’s remarkable journey and dedication to music and performance. The concert, which promises to be a heartwarming showcase of talent and community spirit, has been enthusiastically supported by the PGG Community. The chaplain expressed his heartfelt gratitude and admiration for the effort and passion behind the initiative. “Thanks to Kay Bigyan for the motivation, initiation, and…

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Vienna, Austria—Rambak Austria, a cultural group dedicated to preserving and promoting Filipino Indigenous traditions and culture in Austria, is set to host a Parol-Making Workshop on December 14, 2024, from 14:00 to 19:00. The event will take place at Gretl, Einsiedlerplatz 7, 1050 Vienna. The workshop will allow participants to learn the art of crafting parols, traditional Filipino star-shaped lanterns that symbolize hope and the festive spirit of Christmas. Suitable for all ages, this hands-on activity promises to be an enjoyable way to celebrate Filipino culture during the holiday season.…

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As the Christmas season approaches, celebrations unfold across the globe, rich with culture and tradition. One such vibrant celebration occurred in Vienna, where the Filipino community gathered for “Pasko ng Pagkakaisa” in the 10th District of Vienna, Citadines South Vienna. This event not only highlighted the festive mood of the season but also underscored the sense of belonging and solidarity among Filipinos living abroad. The warmth of the Filipino spirit was palpable from the moment attendees arrived. The gathering commenced with a heartfelt opening prayer by Ning Lobrigo of the…

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Vienna, Austria – The festive season comes alive in Vienna with the opening of Marikit Markt, Austria’s first Filipino Christmas pop-up market. Initiated by Sherry Bongalon, a proud Pinay mother, the event celebrates Filipino culture and tradition under the banner “Paskong Pinoy in Vienna.” Located at Sebastian-Kelchgasse 4-6/1 in the 14th district, the market welcomes visitors from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM on Saturday, December 7, 2024. This unique pop-up offers a vibrant selection of goods, including clothing, jewelry, arts and crafts, books, décor, handmade items, and holiday gifts. Filipino…

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