In Chandler’s Ford, there has been a fascinating tradition of the Posada figures visiting local families.
This Mexican Posada (Las Posadas) tradition has been established by the St. Boniface Church in Chandler’s Ford.
The word Posada (Las Posadas) means “inn” or “shelter” in Spanish, and their journey symbolises the Biblical journey of Mary & Joseph as they searched for shelter in Bethlehem, before the birth of Jesus.
The celebration traditionally begins on December 16 and ends on December 24, though in Chandler’s Ford, the tradition has been adapted and it normally starts from early December.
The Posada figures include three wooden figures, Mary, Joseph and a donkey. Since two weeks ago, the Posada figures have visited families, schools and the local community, such as Prince’s Mead Preparatory School in Winchester, Hiltingbury Infant School and Challoner House Care Home in Chandler’s Ford.
When it arrived at my house last weekend, I kept the Posada figures with a few origami cranes that I made. Cranes are symbols of peace and hope, which echo the true spirit of Christmas.
What’s your Christmas tradition? Have you ever met the Posada figures? What does Christmas mean to you? Do leave a message and share your Christmas tradition with us.
Hi Janet,
We are attempting to renew our elderly Posada figures and wondered if you have any we can purchase OR know where we can get them ?