Nine days before Christmas, Catholics live with more enthusiasm the preparation for the birth of Jesus Christ. For this reason, the Christmas Novena is usually developed, although some groups prefer to combine this tradition with visits to different homes, from December 16 to 24, to simulate the action of asking for an inn like José and María did on Christmas Eve.
How the inn develops
One group takes the role of José and María, while another group will respond to the request for a posada.
- The posada song is sung
- The entrance of the faithful is allowed
- Welcome words to attendees
- A Christmas Carol
- Opening prayer for every day
- A small passage from the Bible is read
- Small reflection
- Petitions
- Our father
- Ave Maria
- Final prayer for every day
- Carol
Song of the Inn
Jose and Maria:
I ask you for lodging for the Love of God
my wife is pregnant, it’s her and me
Answer:
We don’t know them, it’s late sir,
go on your way, find another inn
Jose and Maria:
I am a carpenter and my name is José
my wife is Maria and we are going to Bethlehem
Answer:
The house is small there is no room
it’s already midnight there is no attention
Jose and Maria:
My wife can’t take another step
She is so tired she wants to cry
Answer:
Who is the Lady asking the favor?
We have no room, do not insist for God
Jose and Maria:
She is a Queen of a Kingdom of love,
She is Mother of the Word of the son of God
Answer:
If she were queen in carriage she would come
How is it that he goes on a donkey and on such a cold night?
Jose and Maria:
Open the door for us, give us a corner
Don’t you know that my wife leads to the Lord?
Answer:
Why didn’t you say so when you called us?
Walk by, there is plenty of love here!
(Song written by Father Hugo Vásquez y Almazán) (I)
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