The Christmas season in Mexico begins on December 16, the first day of posadas. Posada is the Mexican word for a tradition popular among many Hispanic countries, the commemoration of the Holy Family's pilgrimage. Posadas takes place over a period of nine days before Christmas; in each posada, the faithful act out Mary and Joseph's search for lodging. people travel to one another's homes, taking on the roles of holy pilgrims or nasty innkeepers.
The ritual culminates in celebration and prayer around the family alter, on which is placed a creche and a covering of pine branches and moss. The houses are decorated with Spanish moss, evergreens, and paper lanterns. Also present are "The Flowers of the Holy Night", or poinsettias. After the religious portion of the posada is over, there is much merriment, with food, fireworks and pinatas. The final and most important posada takes place on Christmas Eve. The baby Jesus is placed in the cradle amid prayer and song. Afterward, everyone attends midnight Mass.
For Catholics, the festivities end here. Christmas Day is quiet, and there is no Santa Claus figure. Children receive their gifts on Epiphany. For Protestants however, the posadas are a bit different.There is more outdoor caroling, and the children receive a gift bag from Santa during a church service early on Christmas Eve.
About the Author...
Born and raised in the state of New York, R.M. Villoria began his writing career as a prolific songwriter. After two back-to-back tours as a Marine in Vietnam, Villoria spent the next few years owning and operating a myriad of businesses and in 1992 returned to writing, this time appeasing his appetite for suspense and horror fiction.
Born and raised in the state of New York, R.M. Villoria began his writing career as a prolific songwriter. After two back-to-back tours as a Marine in Vietnam, Villoria spent the next few years owning and operating a myriad of businesses and in 1992 returned to writing, this time appeasing his appetite for suspense and horror fiction.
Years in the making, his ghostly tales touching on the underpinnings of quantum physics and the paranormal are now ready for the public. As his first published work, Villoria presents readers with Volume One of his series “Tales From the Mind Field.”
Villoria has a son and daughter and lives in Las Vegas with his Wife.
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