As the Advent and Christmas seasons approach, the mission church communities of San Antonio come alive with vibrant cultural traditions that hold deep spiritual significance. Among these cherished customs are the matachine dance troupes and the celebration of Las Posadas, both of which celebrate the faith, culture, and history of the archdiocese.
Matachines: A dance of devotion
Los Matachines is a centuries-old religious dance that traces its roots back to medieval Spain. Originally the dace depicted the battle between Christianity and paganism. The Spanish introduced this dance to the New World where it incorporated Mexican, Indian, and American religious and social symbols. The dance is a form of prayer often performed in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe, who is revered as the patroness of the Americas.
In San Antonio, matachines dance groups are a common sight during the Christmas season. Adorned in costumes decorated with colorful beads, sequins, and feathers, they pray as they dance to the rhythm of drums and other traditional instruments. Each movement is imbued with deep religious significance, symbolizing the dancers’ devotion and reverence for the Virgin Mary.
For many participants, being part of a Matachines group is a way to express their faith and cultural heritage. It is a communal activity that brings families and neighborhoods together, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. The preparation for the dances often involves the entire community, with members coming together to create costumes, rehearse steps, and plan pilgrimages.
Las Posadas: Reenacting the journey of Mary and Joseph
Las Posadas, which translates to “the inns,” is another beloved tradition that holds a special place at the missions and reenacts the journey of Mary and Joseph as they searched for lodging in Bethlehem before the birth of Jesus. This celebration once occurred over nine days in December culminating on Christmas Eve. Today, the mission churches and cathedral generally choose an evening in December before Christmas for the celebration.
Participants gather to form a procession, with children often playing the roles of Mary and Joseph. The group moves from house to house or along a designated route, singing traditional songs and asking for “posada” or shelter. At each stop, they are symbolically turned away until they reach the final location, where they are welcomed inside.
Both the matachines dance troupes and Las Posadas are integral to the Christmas celebrations in the San Antonio mission church communities.
As the season of Advent and Christmas draws near, you are invited to experience these sacred traditions. For more information of how you can participate, visit caminosanantonio.org.
