In the name of heaven, I request you grant us shelter

Intermountain Catholic

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Bishop John C. Wester and others represent those inside the inn, or posada, who sing verses about why they cannot let the strangers into the inn. ?They might be truants.?

SALT LAKE CITY — The celebration of La Posada is a tradition that goes all the way back to the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors. Often a nine-day celebrations beginning Dec. 16 and ending Dec. 23 (Noche Buena or "holy night") Las Posadas tell the story of the many troubles Mary and Joseph encountered as they sought a place to stay the night Jesus was born.

The Diocesan Office of Hispanic Ministry presented the annual La Posada Dec. 22, with Bishop John C. Wester leading the innkeepers song, which first offered no relief to Joseph, Mary, the angels, and their guests, but then welcomed them in to the warmth of the Cathedral of the Madeleine.

After music and song (Christmas Carols, or "villancicos") the praying of the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary by various families and ministerial groups. Then a litany was recited and Bishop Wester offered a brief homily in which all peregrinos (pilgrims) are made welcome.

After the drama, the party aspect of La Posada began, with plenty of food, beverages, and a piñata for the children, all accompanied by music.

Las Posadas, rich in Mexican tradition, is celebrated throughout Latin America, with each country adding their own traditions. In the Mexican tradition, all the pilgrims carry small, lit candles in their hands, and four people carry small statues of Joseph leading a donkey on which Mary is riding.

The Diocese of Salt Lake City’s tradition includes a donkey on wheels.