​San Fernando Cathedral La Gran Posada a reminder for today

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Catholic News Agency

San Fernando Cathedral La Gran Posada a reminder for today



La Gran Posada, a Christmas tradition dating back to colonial times in the city of San Antonio and continued to this day, was presented by San Fernando Cathedral on December 19. Las Posadas are celebrated to prepare for the birth of Christ. The Spanish word posada translates into lodging in English. Each posada re-enacts the biblical account of Mary and Joseph’s search for lodging in Bethlehem on the eve of Jesus’ birth.

The posada hymns are a reminder of the rejection the holy couple experiences as each innkeeper refused them lodging for the night. It is a reminder of the many families today who do not have adequate lodging or are homeless.

The first La Gran Posada took place shortly after the founding of Villa de San Fernando in 1731.

Beginning in Milam Park, the pilgrimage traveled along downtown streets into the historic civic center. Stops were made at Mi Tierra Restaurant and La Margarita Restaurant and process down Santa Rosa Street and left on Dolorosa to the Spanish Governor’s Palace, San Antonio City Hall, and the Bexar County Courthouse.

In keeping with tradition, the journey ended at San Fernando Cathedral, the historic geographic center of the city. It is here that the holy couple will be granted lodging with prayer and Christmas music from mariachis. A piñata also provided entertainment for children.