A posada is a Mexican and Latin American tradition where people ritually reenact Mary’s and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem in parades throughout town. For our posada, two small Mary and Joseph dolls travelled from house to house in our parish with a journal. Read the reflections that were left behind below as they moved from place to place on their way to Bethlehem.

11/27/2022

An unusual looking couple accompanied by a weary donkey appeared at our door Sunday evening just before dinner. Robert and I looked at each other with “that look,” knowing we were to invite this young couple into our home. What to do with the donkey was another concern, so we tied him up in the backyard and gave him fresh water and grass clippings from an earlier mowing. Low and behold, we realized this young girl was child-expecting, pregnant at her age. She was beautiful with dark hair and tan skin and there seemed to be an aura about her and in broken English she said her name was Mary. The young man also spoke to tell us his name was Joseph, and they were traveling to Bethlehem to pay taxes. “Pay taxes” we said, in her condition to travel 68 miles on a donkey over rugged terrain? Mary said, “you sound just like my mother,” and in her broken English she said, “her name is Anne and she is mucho concerned about me and my baby.” Obviously, it was way past dinner time and we had put together a meal for four that was originally for two. Mary and Joseph ate spaghetti and before we ate, Robert asked us to hold hands as he offered the blessing and then those two ate like there was no tomorrow.

Mary was worn out and Ellen walked her upstairs to her bedroom. Joseph followed and Ellen showed them the bathroom and accommodations. Their eyes popped when they saw the tub and toilet, and Ellen had to demonstrate how to use both. The next day Mary and Joseph shared with us both a dream about the angel Gabriel telling Mary of the birth of the Messiah and his name would be Jesus and that she had to go to Bethlehem. Without our realizing, our English was understood by the couple, and we were speaking Spanish. The line of communication had been opened. We spent the rest of the time that morning talking about God’s plan to bring this Holy Child into the world and that Mary and Joseph would be exceptional parents. As the time to say goodbye approached, we loaded our new friends with goodies and water bottles to keep them nourished. We watched until we no longer could see them in the distance. Our home was blessed to be an “inn” and our hearts had been changed in anticipation of the birth of the Messiah.

-Ellen and Robert Dozier

Mary and Joseph’s next day got off to a good start, but there were tribulations along the way. They arrived at my office as they had announced before and spent the entire day with me. They were fascinated with the computer, but a little put off by how the scribes talked to each other. They did not realize how contentious scribes could be with one another. Some of the language was certainly not what they expected!

Then, ah dios mio, when I got home, my wife, expecting the young couple asked, “Where are the guests?” After a quick return to the office and finding Joseph shopping online at Home Depot, they came to the house. That donkey was a whole different problem. I mean who travels by donkey these days?

Once they got the house, no thanks to a certain husband, they were a delightful young couple. Knowing the young woman was obviously with child, we offered her water. She told us how unhealthy water could be, but we told her our water had great chemicals like fluoride and chlorine. She opted for the wine saying it was an omen to come about some future wedding. We had no idea what she was talking about, but she seemed certain of herself.

They enjoyed the dish, but the rice was not the same as the wheat they were accustomed to. But they were polite, and like at Bob and Ellen’s, they cleaned their plates. After dinner, they were exhausted. We offered them our best bed, but Joseph said his back was hurting from the soft mattress he slept on the night before. Mary thought it was the best sleep ever and told us what a great hostess Ellen was. She opted for the bed and Joseph slept out back with the donkey who did not get along with the resident deer. After a breakfast of fruit and juice, which seemed to be more of a normal diet for them, they continued their journey. We directed them to Don and Jess, who we knew would take good care of them.

-Tom and Wendy Dougall

P.S. Wendy was thrilled by Joseph’s carpentry skills since she can never get her husband to fix anything around the house.

When Mary and Joseph came to us last evening, from Tom and Wendy, these are the things that changed us forever:

Mary was so young… maybe 14.
She was aglow with beauty, but a bit scared, but what 14-year-old virgin wouldn’t be?
She was starting to be uncomfortable with her condition… ready to give birth soon especially when riding on a donkey for days on end.
Joseph was fiercely protective, but very trusting of us.
We had to deal with their uncertainties but worked hard to be reassuring.
Not an easy task because we only had them for a day to rejuvenate and nourish them… both body and soul.
We probably were able to give them reassurance and kindness, but we both knew they were about to change the WORLD!!!

-Dan and Terri Neal

When Jeff and I were asked to host Mary and Joseph, we weren’t sure what it all entailed. We were genuinely glad to see them and welcomed them early in their journey. We were hopeful that they would be comfortable, rest, and be refreshed to continue on. They were polite. They were both quiet, reserved even, and maybe a little shy. Completely understandable! They were also relieved to rest. In amazement I was looking at Mary and thinking about the child she was carrying. Christ!!! What a gift to the world she would soon deliver!!! Jeff and I were both in awe. I hope I didn’t stare. I was reminded of a verse in a Brandi Carlile song, “I saw your eyes behind your hair, and you’re looking tired, but you don’t look scared.” While understandably weary, there was a peace and certainty about both of them. Later that night after our guests had gone to bed, we talked about how their visit made us think about the meaning of Christmas in a deliberate way: its promise its hope, and its restoration. The next day, Mary and Joseph smiled a little more … As they prepared to depart, Joseph attended to their donkey and Mary sat drinking her tea, eager to move forward into what was to come. What an experience.

-Patti and Jeff Tautenhan

When Mary and Joseph arrived, they came from our newest friend Jeff Tautenhan. So new that Jeff was more the stranger than the travelling couple! After the introductions and instructions, Jeff had to go, and we were too pushed for time. Out-of-town guests, decorating, wrapping, travel planning were things that Patti and I become consumed with during Advent. Always proclaiming that “next Advent will be different!!” Quieter. Calmer. It’s always fun, always meaningful, but overloaded. So Mary and Joseph sat in their basket. With guests, meals, and catching up, bedtime came quick. We’ll do the Posadas liturgy tomorrow, and thten let them travel to the Tomlin family. And there was evening and there was morning, the first day, Saturday in Advent! Doesn’t matter which one. It’s packed! Family and friends, “to-do” lists, a birthday party (of course I made the cake!), large family feast. That night, the only liturgy was the one for getting grandkids (toddlers) to bed. Joseph and Mary? Sitting quietly, just where I placed them. And there was evening and there was morning, the second day, Sunday. Church! Why do I feel like I’m imposing to ask the guests to go to the church? They don’t bring it up. We don’t bring it up. Big breakfast. A hike. Lunch. Naps (young and old). 8-foot-high mound of leaves and a couple hours of jumping. Dinner (huge). Kids to bed. Grown-ups wrap gifts for families helping families and prep them for delivery. Collapse in bed. And there was evening and there was morning, the third day, Monday. Work. Patty entertaining everyone. The distracted (home office!). Lunch and loading cars. Goodbyes (of course we cried!). Patty spends hours straightening the house. I’m back to work ‘til bedtime. And there was evening and there was morning, the… fourth (?) day. Ever have something sit on your table for so long that it becomes invisible? Yep. You know where I’m going with this! By this time I totally forgot about that humble couple, sitting quietly, unimposing, just disappearing into their surroundings. And then…a message from Kristl. They’re leaving for the holidays! They lost their turn! I lost them their turn!! Thinking of all the people that probably ignored Joseph and Mary. Using the classic excuse … Census! Busy! Advent! Busy! Was I like those innkeepers that turned away Mary and Joseph? Too much to do! Not here, you two. I was focusing so much on Advent, took my eye off the manger. Took my eye off the cross! Next Advent will be different? Maybe. Probably not. But God knows that and loves us anyway. Next year may be different, but God will not be. Vaya con Dios, Joseph y Mary.

-Pat and Patty D’Anna

Dec. 9, 2022

We welcome you to our home, Joseph and Mary. Like you, we are an ordinary family, living our ordinary life, but filled with the blessing from above. Tonight, we invite you to come to a family birthday celebration. There will be food, cake, fun, and family. Please make yourselves comfortable, as we know you still have a long journey ahead of you. We hope you will find rest for your spirit and soul. Food to fill you and give you the energy you need for travel. We love Advent, waiting, watching, and experiencing the mystery of God’s presence.

Dec. 10, 2022

So, last night, Mary and Joseph sat quietly in their basket, under the Christmas tree, resting. Our four-year-old granddaughter spots them … takes them out of the basket and asks, “Where’s Jesus?” As you move closer to your delivery date Mary, know that Jesus was here, in this home tonight, because of the courage of you and Joseph. It has been a pleasure having you in our home. As always, “Good-byes” are sad, but we know you must continue your journey. Please accept our well wishes, and snacks for the journey. Your donkey seems eager to continue. He has been fed, watered, and groomed. Be safe, know you are always welcome here, anytime.

-Anthony and Cynthia Capitelli

Dec. 12, 2022

Mary and Joseph arrived at our home while we were still a bit dazed after the death of Allison’s stepfather Bill. They sat amidst the paperwork and in front of the fire, reminding us to breathe —that nothing separates us when there is love. We also took comfort from them, knowing that St. Martin’s would continue to circle around them just as they have our family in this time of transition.

Peace,

Allison and Bob Askins

Dec. 14, 2022

Denise and I welcomed Mary into our home last evening led by Joseph. We were thankful for their presence and that they were able to take time to visit us on their journey. We are grateful to St. Martin’s for hosting this journey. Mary and Joseph reminded us of the true meaning of Christmas, hope, peace, and love.

A joyous season to all,

Pete Stewart

Dec. 14 p.m.

Picked up Joseph and Mary from St. Martin’s from Denise who was attending Bible study. Unfortunately they had to go on some errands with me, but fortunately are now having a little rest while I am working on Christmas cards and we are listening to some classical music on WCPL. This evening I invited them to accompany me to my daughter’s house for dinner. Afterwards, they watched as we decorated my daughter’s Christmas tree. They were unaware of the tree, what it was for, and why we decorate it. I explained that while many religions over the centuries have considered trees as “sacred,” there have been many legends of trees connected to their soon-to-be-born son.

One concerns the night of Jesus’ birth when all the tress blossomed and put forth fruit and the very stars came down and settles in their branches. Another story is about St. Joseph of Arimathea, a follower of Jesus who traveled to England. When he got there, he drove his staff into the ground where it grew into a magnificent thorn tree which blooms only at Christmas.

Martin Luther, a great church reformer, is attributed with the origin of the “modern” Christmas tree. The story goes that while walking home one cold night, he saw the stars shining through the branches of the fir trees and how wonderous it was. He went home to show his family by cutting down a small tree and set candles in the branches —the first Christmas tree. In essence, the Christmas tree reminds of Him whose birth we celebrate. The lights signify he is and always will be “the light of the world,” the garland and decorations, He is the Rose that bloomed ‘mid-winter, the gifts below the tree, He is God’s gift to mankind, and the tree itself, He gives everlasting life, for He is Christ, the Tree of Life. How happy Joseph and Mary were to hear this, Mary especially. She said she would always keep it to heart. We finished the evening with a cup of tea and some fruitcake before retiring.

-Unsigned

Dec. 15

Mary and Joseph’s visit to our home came at a particularly hard time. My husband and I, both teachers, are physically and emotionally drained and just trying to make it to Christmas break with our sanity intact. I am grateful to Drew for remembering to pick up poor Mary and Joseph. My day had left me so drained I barely made it home. It was nice to take a small break as a family, remember what Christmas is about, and pray for healing and rest.

God bless and Merry Christmas,

Kyle Sanders

Being a teacher in these times is tough. Mary and Joseph took a very long ride home with me today and rested along with us as we put another long day behind us. The chance to pray and reflect together as a family, to remind ourselves why we celebrate, was a welcome break from feelings of tireless inadequacy. We are, in fact, more than adequate to each other, and to our Lord, who helps lull us into a sense of rest when we need it most.

Peace and love,

Drew Bozard

Mary and Joseph arrive at our home in time to join us for a single meal of roasted meat and veggies. As we shared our meal, I watched Mary as she gazed at our Advent wreath. Advent meaning preparation or arrival, I know she was thinking of the arrival of the precious baby, the baby she was told would be the son of God, the word made flesh. It’s been a long journey going into this last week before giving birth and they are both weary. They settle down for a good night’s sleep for they didn’t know what the next day would bring. With much needed rest, they woke up to a cloudy day and decided not to travel in case it rained. Joseph took the morning to plan and pray for safe travels on the next day. Mary went with me and my daughter to see the lady, Sally, who makes bags for ladies. Mary wanted to see if Sally had a bag that would fit over the donkey’s back but decided the bag she had would work just fine. Being so close to her due date, Mary decided to rest more as the last part of the trip could be hard on her. Joseph has been fretting over Mary and the impending birth. After another night of a single supper of soup, Mary and Joseph head down to get a good rest before starting out on their journey in the morning. They are eager to arrive in Bethlehem, but they know that the journey is still long, and they hope to meet more nice people along the way. After blessings and peace and love all around, they leave on their journey.

-Patsy and Jack Myers

Dec. 18, 2022

Our family received Mary and Joseph from Patsy and Jack Myers on Dec. 18. The first night, they sat in the den in the rocking chair and visited. They spent the night sleeping in their basket. On Dec. 19, they watched a matinee with us. I think they enjoyed it. We have really loved having the opportunity to have them with us in our home. We have tried to make them as comfortable as possible as they travel their hard journey. Today, Dec. 20, they sat quietly and watched the cold weather and rain through the window. They are preparing to move to the Rashleys. We wish them all our love and pray for their safe travels.

With all our love,

The Dukes

Tuesday, December 20, 2022

Neil picked up Mary and Joseph from the Dukes Tuesday afternoon…I am sure they are relieved to be travelling by car than on foot/donkey. That evening they met our family including Charlie, our dog. We had a Christmas Drop-In to go to, so they decided to rest and lay low tonight as I told them about our BIG plans for the next day.

Wednesday, December 21st

Oh, what a treat…we delivered a few presents and goodies and picked up our friend’s dog, Spencer, that will be staying with us for the holidays —then we went to visit Lib Dixon, one of my favorite people in the whole wide world. It was my highlight of the holidays! We read this journal together and loved getting to know Mary and Joseph and their ventures so far. When we left Lib’s, we headed out to Lexington to see my son Andrew and his wife English. It’s about a 30-minute drive, so we listened to Christmas music the entire way. Mary’s favorite was “Silent Night” while Joseph enjoyed “The Little Drummer Boy”Away in …they both loved “Away in a Manger.” Once getting to Lexington, they were delighted to see my mom had arrived safely from Greenville (she’s 84 ½ and still driving), and most of all to meet Sadie, my new granddaughter. Sadie loved them, too, although at 4 ½ months, she doesn’t talk, but smiles and laughs when she’s happy. We said a prayer with Mary and Joseph that Jesus would be a happy baby, too! After spending Wednesday and Thursday in Lexington, they came back to our home in Columbia. As we approach the birthday of Jesus, we remember the TRUE meaning CHRISTmas. It’s been a blessing to have them remind us of the many things we are grateful for.

-Allison Rashley & family

On Christmas Eve, Allison Rashley brought the dolls and this journal forward along with the offerings to the altar, where they arrived safely and celebrated the birth of the Christ child.

Posada: The Journey of Mary and Joseph throughout Advent

This Week from Mitch

This Week from Mitch