OUR FIRST POSADA

Last evening, Marielena, Gerardo, and Mateo invited us to join them at the local parish church, Parroquia de San Matias Jalatlaco, for a Christmas carol concert. The concert was to begin at 7:00 p.m. We arrived about two minutes before seven and the church was almost empty. Gerardo inquired and was informed that the choir had been there, didn’t see any people, so they left. That is a first in Mexico for us. Normally, events never start on time. What is one to do? We walked home.

Marielena remembered that there was a “Posada” nearby. A “Posada” is a Christmas festival originating in Latin America that dramatizes the search of Joseph and Mary for lodging. The first posada was on December 16th. There are eight posadas at homes and the ninth is Christmas Eve. It was only a couple blocks from the house. The posada actually started at 7:00 p.m., so we were late. However, we weren’t the only late arrivals. When we came in, everyone gave us a friendly greeting. They were just finishing up some prayer services. We were each handed a little candle, a long sparkler, and a whistle. Of course, everything they were saying (prayers and songs) were in Spanish.

We all proceeded up the street about a block. Leading the procession were two young men carrying a decorated table with statues of Mary and Joseph on top. Everyone was singing, praying, blowing their whistles, lighting their sparklers and candles. When we arrived to the next home, the leaders knocked on the door and said some prayers. There were people on the other side of the door answering back in prayer. This went on back and forth for a few minutes. Then the doors were opened and everyone was invited in. There were about 30 people in total.

Once everyone arrived, more prayers were said. A man also read from the bible. Afterwards, they talked about the meaning of the readings. They also said, “Lord, hear our prayers”. A few people verbalized their prayers. It was truly amazing to take part in this celebration.

After the services, the hostess served punch, juice, and sandwiches…fellowship time.

HOSTESS

As we left for home, we were invited to tomorrow night’s posada and every guest received a “goodie bag”that said, “Happy Birthday”. Happy Birthday is for the celebration of Jesus. Each bag contained a lot of goodies. The people are very generous and friendly.

                            

There was a beautiful Nativity set displayed on the floor of the room.

During the services, both of us noticed a picture on the wall that reminded us of Aunt Maryann.

It was a simple but memorable occasion.