As the festive season of Christmas approaches, my heart is filled with fond memories of the beautiful traditions that defined the holiday season during my time at NPH Mexico. Christmas at NPH was not merely a day of celebration; it was a series of joyous moments that brought us together as a family, creating lasting bonds and cherished memories.
Reflecting on the significance of Christmas at NPH takes me back to the year 1985 when I first became a part of the NPH Mexico family. Despite spending only six months within the embrace of NPH before my inaugural Christmas celebration, the warmth and love I received from Father Wasson and the caregivers made me feel at home from the very beginning. The genuine connections formed within the NPH community transcended time, fostering a sense of belonging that went beyond material celebrations.
Christmas traditions at NPH were more than mere rituals; they were threads weaving a tapestry of love, unity, and familial ties that transformed NPH into a true home. The spirit of Christmas at NPH serves as a testament to the enduring power of shared experiences and the profound impact of connections forged within the NPH family.
One of the most vivid memories is that of the Posadas, which commenced after the celebration of the Virgin of Guadalupe on December 16th. The procession, or peregrinación, moved through the main gate, clinic, and church, culminating at the school. With candles in our hands, we sang and reenacted the journey of Mary and Joseph seeking shelter. The joyous culmination at the school patio was a moment of shared happiness, symbolizing humility, fortitude, detachment, charity, trust, justice, purity, joy, and generosity—the nine Posadas representing the days Jesus and Mary spent on their way to Bethlehem.
Piñatas played a central role in our celebrations, their round shape with seven spikes symbolizing the seven capital sins. Breaking the piñata blindfolded represented the faith that is blind, with a stick symbolizing virtue putting an end to temptations and sins. The treasures inside, including candies, fruits, and sometimes toys, were shared among all, reinforcing the spirit of inclusivity.
Christmas at NPH was unique; it went beyond Santa Claus and gifts to embrace togetherness, sharing, and the reenactment of the search for shelter. The Posadas, accompanied by laughter and unity, created lasting memories. The Mass in Miacatlán’s farm on the 24th, surrounded by the sounds of goats and pigs, added a unique touch to our celebration.
As we come together in the spirit of Christmas, I extend heartfelt wishes for a remarkable journey into the upcoming year, 2024. May the warmth of the holiday season carry us into a new chapter filled with hope, joy, and exciting possibilities. The NPH family has always been a beacon of resilience and unity, and I believe that the coming year holds tremendous promise for all of us.
May the bonds that tie us together continue to strengthen, and may each member of the NPH community find inspiration, growth, and fulfillment in the days ahead. Here’s to a joyful Christmas, a harmonious New Year, and the collective anticipation of the exciting times that lie ahead for the NPH family.
As I extend my warmest wishes for a Merry Christmas to each one of you, may the spirit of Posadas and the joyous memories we shared at NPH bring you warmth, love, and a deep sense of belonging. Cherish the moments, savor the traditions, and may this Christmas be a reminder of the beautiful community we are all part of.