Las posadas

The Posadas are pre-Christmas celebrations, which are celebrated in Latin America, Mexico and the southwestern United States from the 16th of December. The custom is celebrated not only by Roman Catholic Christians, but is also found in the calendar of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. There are a total of 9 days and each day is a month of pregnancy of Mary. Make the search of Mary and Joseph for a hostel on their way from Nazareth to Bethlehem before the birth of Jesus represents the last Posada is therefore celebrated on Christmas Eve.

The tradition comes from the Augustinians which to convert the Indians in their attempt their customs used to reflect the Christian faith. So the Aztecs celebrated in December the coming of Huitzilopochtli. The first Posada was held in the Monastery of Alcolman in the northeast of Mexico City. In addition there was always piñatas and Christmas carols were sung.

Today, the tradition has changed. Friends and relatives are meeting in a house. Some are facing the front door and ask Mary and Joseph is asking for a place to stay. The house is the innkeeper and his guests. Alternately, is sung. All have a small candle in his hand. Sometimes children bear the figures Mary, Joseph and the donkey in his hand.

The outside parties begin to sing:

The house will be replied with:

All four verses you switch off.

Finally, all sing:

  • Christmas
  • Festivals and Customs (Mexico)
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