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Members of the Young Adult Advisory Council of the archdiocese hosted their second annual posada for 11 retired priests at Padua Place on Dec. 19. A posada tells the story of Joseph and Mary's search for shelter as they arrive in Bethlehem and look for a place to stay before baby Jesus is born; posada means inn or lodging.
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By Katherine Jass Lopez
For Today’s Catholic
During the Advent season there are many things do to do to celebrate and prepare for the coming of Christ on Christmas day; some put up Christmas Trees, others their Advent Wreaths. But amidst all the hustle and bustle of shopping, wrapping presents and looking for a great parking spot at the mall -- one of the most meaningful traditions is to participate in a posada.
On Dec. 19, the Young Adult Advisory Council of the archdiocese hosted their second annual posada for 11 retired priests resided at Padua Place. A posada tells the story of Joseph and Mary’s search for shelter as they arrive in Bethlehem and look for a place to stay before baby Jesus is born; posada means inn or lodging.
Beginning with prayer and a reading from Luke 2:1-7 which tells of Mary and Joseph’s journey to find lodging for the night, the YA’s and participants were encouraged to open their hearts to those less fortunate and think about how they welcome the strangers who seek shelter and a better life through the reenactment of Mary and Joseph. “In addition to participating in this wonderful reenactment, our hope is that it serves as a reminder of all those who are less fortunate and to remind of our baptismal call and that we are called to serve God’s people,” commented Diana Tavera, member of the YA Advisory Council.
The YA’s followed Mary and Joseph, also referred to as pilgrims, outside the perimeter of Padua Place carrying candles, to two doors asking for lodging where those inside, some of the retired priests and staff, turned them away just as it was told in the bible until finally coming to the third door where they were welcomed and given a place to stay. As the pilgrims processed they were led by music provided by Gilbert Maldonado from St. Brigid’s Church and Martin de Martinez from St. James Church. “It was an honor to share my ministry of music tonight with the retired priests -- they have all done so much for us and to be able to spend time with them during the posada was a blessing for me,” Maldonado said.
Once the posada was complete, all were invited in to share tamales, pastries and a traditional Mexican drink, champurrado which is a special hot chocolate made with masa. The musicians continued to play songs such as “Feliz Navidad” to add to the festivities. Archbishop Emeritus Patrick Flores joined in the singing and offered a prayer and special blessing for all those in attendance. “It was an honor to be here to spend time with these priests who have done so much for our church and share the posada and the meal – this is something I will always remember,” said Chrystal Rodriguez, with San Antonio College Campus Ministry.
Sister Rosemary Martinez with St. Anthony de Padua looks after the priests and their needs said they were very happy to have the group come out again this year. “They look forward to people coming to visit with them and you all bring such joy to the fathers and they especially like the music and food,” she said.
Several priests also expressed their gratitude to the YA’s. “I want to thank you all for coming again this year; the posadas are very important and it is wonderful to share them with you,” said retired Auxiliary Bishop Bernard Popp. “We are so happy to have you young people come and visit with us and share the posada and we want you to keep coming back,” said Msgr. Sherrill Smith.
Many commented on how the evening helped to remind them of the true meaning of the season and the example the retired priests serve to each of us. “The posadas help me restore my faith in the season and when I see these men and think of all they have done and all of the people they have ministered to it makes me smile and reaffirms my own baptismal call to serve,” said Rosario Jimenez, a YA from Blessed Sacrament Church. “This was a wonderful experience and to be able to share it with Archbishop Flores and Bishop Popp whom I grew up and now can reconnect with them is a blessing -- this was a great opportunity to give back to them just a little for all they have done for our community,” shared Joseph Liedecke, campus minister at the University of Texas San Antonio.