Last Monday, December 21, 2015, La Posada’s staff, clients and volunteers participated in the beautiful tradition of Las Posadas (the inns): a re-enactment of the Biblical journey of Mary and Joseph as they searched for shelter in Bethlehem before the birth of Jesus.
This year, two of our clients had the honor of playing the roles of Mary and Joseph. Our Joseph, from Cuba, and Mary, from Ethiopia, were very excited to participate in this touching and memorable event as they celebrate their very first Christmas in the U.S.
The Agado family participated in the re-enactment as our wonderful musicians playing guitars and singing the traditional “Posada” songs. This is the tenth-consecutive year they lend their talents and celebrate with us.
After the re-enactment, La Posada had a small celebration in Casa Belen. The group sang Christmas carols and enjoyed a delicious meal of tamales, chicken salad sandwiches, and a variety of cookies and brownies.
The tradition of giving “posada” to a family in need is not only a re-enactment that is celebrated each December at La Posada, but rather it is the cornerstone of La Posada’s mission. Each year, we welcome hundreds of vulnerable women and families who are waiting for the birth of a child. As with Mary and Joseph, our clients’ needs are dire, yet basic, safe shelter. While their cultures and languages can vary significantly, they are all fleeing their native lands for the same reason – to seek safety for their children, away from the violence and oppression that threatened their lives every day.
May you be blessed with the joy of His presence and the quiet and peace of this season now and throughout the New Year.
La Posada Providencia, founded and sponsored by the Sisters of Divine Providence, is a ministry for people in crisis from around the world, who are seeking legal refuge in this country. The shelter staff provides a safe and welcoming home; mentors to promote self-sufficiency and cultural integration; and imparts values which witness God’s Providence in our world.
