Day 20. Las Posadas: Processions of Hope in Abya Yala.

Las Posadas, celebrated from December 16–24 in Mexico and parts of Latin America, reenacts Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter before Jesus’ birth. Communities gather nightly for processions, singing, and the sharing of food. Participants symbolize solidarity, generosity, and the act of keeping hope alive for those in need. The joyful rituals of sharing teaches that light, both spiritual and simple, can transform us deeper into communal connection

In this tradition, children and adults carry candles through streets, knocking on doors and singing songs asking for shelter. Neighbors welcome the processions, offering food and hospitality. Las Posadas is both a spiritual and civic act: it reminds communities that collective care protects the vulnerable and preserves cultural identity. Light, song, and movement are tools of resilience and resistance against neglect and social darkness.

Las Posadas resonates with UU values of generosity, justice, and radical hospitality. Our covenant calls us to protect, include, and uplift one another. Processions of hope teach that communal effort illuminates solitary act. By bearing light-literally and metaphorically-we practice covenantal love.

Sayings you might hear being exchanged during Las Posadas

“En el nombre del cielo, os pido posada,
pues no puede andar mi esposa amada.” (In the name of heaven, I ask you for lodging,
for my beloved wife can go no farther.)

“No sean inhumanos, tengannos caridad,
que el Dios de los cielos se lo premiara.” (Do not be inhumane, show us charity, for the God of heaven will reward you.)
.
“Entren, santos peregrinos, reciban este rincon,
aunque es pobre la morada, os la doy de corazon.” (Come in, holy pilgrims, receive this humble place;
though the dwelling is poor, I give it to you from my heart.)

Reflection: How can you create spaces of safety, inclusion, and hope in your community this season?