Las Posadas (Spanish for “Inns” or “Shelters”) is a tradition that is celebrated chiefly in Latin America, Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Cuba, Spain, and by Hispanics in the United States to commemorate the pilgrimage of Mary and Joseph as they walked from Nazareth to Bethlehem to be registered in the Bethlehem census. As the story goes, baby Jesus was born in Bethlehem in a stable as the couple couldn’t find lodging at an inn because they were all full.
Once again this year, parishioners of all ages are invited to join the St. John’s Children’s Ministry and host the Holy Family during Advent. From the first Sunday of Advent, on December 3, all the way until Christmas Eve, parishioners host figures of Mary and Joseph in their homes as they travel along their way to Bethlehem.
As Mary and Joseph’s stay winds down at one host’s home, that host will accommodate Mary and Joseph’s transportation to the next host’s home until the couple reaches Bethlehem (or rather, back to St. John’s for the 1 PM Christmas Eve service). We’ll provide you with a prayer book and more information on Las Posadas to make this a meaningful experience. And we’ll share the journey with our parish along the way!
Thanks in advance for signing up to host Mary and Joseph this year! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call or text Stephen Rogers, our annual Posada Chairperson at 850.510.9039.
