Las Posadas: Welcoming Jesus

By Fr. Greg Fishel, SDB

As we have observed the great Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception and the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe at our two Salesian parishes in Chicago, we are ready to begin the yearly celebration of the Posadas. Much like the Christmas Novena, the Posadas are a way to help prepare for the coming feast of the birth of Our Savior.

The Spanish word posada is translated as “inn” or “shelter.” In the Posadas, the story of the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem is recounted. This rich tradition in the Mexican community involves prayer and the singing of a special song which focuses on the efforts of the couple to find a place. 

Here in Chicago this year, as part of our SEPP, we are highlighting different opportunities for family celebrations. Each evening during the Posadas, the youth of the parishes and their parents will gather to “re-enact” the events leading up to the birth of Jesus. Each evening ends with the sharing of some community time, which includes some food and treats for the children.

In our predominantly immigrant-based community (as well as our Salesian community, which is multicultural), this celebration has a special significance. We know how Mary and Joseph travelled from Galilee to Bethlehem for the census and how they later fled to Egypt to protect the Christ Child. As they struggled in an unknown locale to find a place for Jesus to be born, so we, too, know how so many of those we serve here at St. John Bosco/St. James, as well as in other presences and ministries in our province, who have left their native homelands to come and make homes and lives in a new place.

During the days of the Posadas, we can unite our prayers, that all of us will prepare a place to welcome the Lord Jesus and all the children of Our Father in a special way. May Almighty God bless you with the fullness of Christmas peace and joy.