For many Filipinos working in Hsinchu, Christmas arrives in between work shifts, factory deadlines, and quiet dorm rooms. The city is known for its science parks and tech industry, but for OFWs living here, the season can feel especially distant from home.
Immaculate Heart of Mary Cathedral in Hsinchu offers a place where Christmas still feels grounded. Each year, Filipino workers gather here for Simbang Gabi, Christmas Mass, and New Year services that balance faith, structure, and community support.
Why This Cathedral Matters to Filipino OFWs in Hsinchu
Hsinchu is home to many Filipino workers employed in factories, electronics manufacturing, and caregiving roles. Work schedules are often fixed and demanding. Immaculate Heart of Mary Cathedral provides multiple Mass times across the Christmas season, making it easier for OFWs to attend despite limited rest days.
The presence of Filipino choir members and volunteers helps newcomers feel welcome, especially those attending for the first time. Simple guidance, familiar hymns, and Tagalog support quietly ease the experience for OFWs who may already feel overwhelmed during the holidays.
Simbang Gabi Schedule 2025
Immaculate Heart of Mary Cathedral, Hsinchu
December 15 to December 18 – 6:30 PM (Cathedral)
December 19 – 6:30 PM (Bishop’s House Basement)
December 20 – 6:00 PM
December 21 – 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM
December 22 to December 23 – 6:30 PM (Cathedral)
These schedules reflect the cathedral’s effort to accommodate different work and rest patterns among parishioners.
Christmas Mass Schedule 2025
Christmas Eve – December 24, 2025
- 6:00 PM
This Mass is often attended by OFWs who are scheduled to work on Christmas Day.
Christmas Day – December 25, 2025
- 9:30 AM
- 11:00 AM
Morning services allow workers with evening shifts to attend without conflict.
New Year Mass Schedule
New Year’s Eve – December 31, 2025
- 6:30 PM
New Year’s Day – January 1, 2026
- 9:30 AM
- 11:00 AM
These Masses mark the Solemnity of Mary and are often treated by OFWs as a quiet way to begin the new year with intention.
How to Join the Christmas Masses
All Masses are open to the public. No registration is required.
For the December 19 Simbang Gabi Mass held at the Bishop’s House basement, attendees are advised to bring a valid ID, as entry procedures may be stricter due to the venue.
Filipino choir members and volunteers are present throughout the Christmas season to assist newcomers and guide first time attendees.
A Cathedral That Makes Space for OFWs
Immaculate Heart of Mary Cathedral may feel formal at first, but during Christmas, it becomes a welcoming place for Filipino workers in Hsinchu. Through clear schedules, supportive volunteers, and consistent services, it helps OFWs reconnect with familiar traditions.
For Filipinos spending Christmas in Hsinchu, this cathedral offers something steady. A place to pause, reflect, and remember that even far from home, faith and community still have a place.