Las Posadas returns to the Historic Old San Ysidro Church Dec. 10, at 6 p.m.
The Corrales Historical Society is re-enacting the journey that Mary and Joseph made from Nazareth to Bethlehem in search of a safe refuge where Mary could give birth to Jesus. Las Posadas, the inn or lodging in Spanish, have been a Mexican tradition for over 400 years starting in 1586. The verses and music used today dates back centuries.
According to a press release, Las Posadas is celebrated throughout Mexico today. Traditionally, a young child dressed as an angel leads a procession with Mary and Joseph through the streets of the village or town. The procession is made up mostly of children dressed in silver and gold robes carrying lit candles and images of Mary and Joseph riding a donkey. Musicians and family members follow as they stop at homes asking for lodging for Joseph and Mary. They are always refused lodging until they are finally granted a stable for Mary to give birth.
Las Posadas are held in many churches today throughout Northern New Mexico. They are normally held nine evenings in a row between Dec. 16- 24, the ninth being at midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. They have become a popular tradition for both Catholics and non-Catholics because it is a time when friends and families get together to sing Christmas songs and share food and drinks.
This rendition of Las Posadas at the Old Church will be one evening only and will be a bilingual event. The Spanish choir from San Ysidro Parish will sing this year. The Old Church will be decorated with farolitos and a luminaria. Hot refreshments and Christmas treats will be served afterward to enjoy around the luminaria.
More information: www.corraleshistory.org
What: “Las Posadas,†presented by Corrales Historical Society
When: Tuesday, Dec. 10, 6 p.m.
Where: Historic Old San Ysidro Church, 966 Old Church Road, across from Casa San Ysidro