Las Posadas was our first attempt as a parish to truly bring Christ back into Christmas. Our parish priest Fr Gerard Tang Choon, O Carm reminded us that the word posada meant inn.

This brainchild of our parish priest, ably directed by Ann Shahid with a cast of twenty young persons coming from the various youth ministries of our parish who willingly gave of their time and talents, did us proud.

Unfortunately, I was only able to attend the final evening’s performance. This however was a memorable experience, with the St Mary’s Senior Choir led by Faith Ann Riley and the Lady Hochoy Steel Orchestra in attendance.

Choir performs at Las Posadas at St Mary's parish, Mucurapo

The beautifully lit palm trees greatly enhanced the atmosphere, as did the presence of the live animals and babies, which I found was a great experience for the children present.

The appearance of the angel above the grotto, the candlelight procession, the beautifully costumed cast and the readings from the scriptures made those present feel that they were part of the first Nativity, taking us back centuries ago.

As if to add icing to the cake we were treated with candy canes – a reminder that Jesus was the person of the moment, our shepherd, our strength and protector. 

All of this occurred as the sweet strains of the steel orchestra filled the air.

Special mention must also be made of the choirs – St Mary’s Music Ministry, the St Mary’s Revival Choir and Mucurapo Girls’ RC School, the St Mary’s Senior Choir and the bagpiper bedecked in his Scottish attire.

It is with the deepest appreciation that we as a parish say thanks to our parish priest and all those who gave us such a delightful experience.

Hats off to the cast for a job well done with only one practice session.  We look forward to seeing you in December 2007.

Archbishop Edward Gilbert graciously accepted the invitation St Mary’s Parish, Mucurapo to bring to a close our annual Christmas Novena.

Archbishop Gilbert (right) with Fr Gerard Tang Choon

In keeping with the theme Jesus the Root of Our Hope, the Archbishop reminded us of the importance of focussing on the real reason for the season, Jesus.

He made mention of the fact that because of the constant bombardment by the media to come to “buy, buy, buy” we have lost the true sense and spirit of Christmas. 

He admonished us to clean up our souls in addition to our homes to prepare for the Lord’s coming, moving away from the elaborate external preparations and turning inward to see Jesus as our only hope in these troubled times.

We were asked to dip into our reserves of faith, believing that in the midst of all that was going on God was present and alive.

For his sterling message we say a heartfelt thank you on behalf of all who attended and extend best wishes to him for 2007 that he may enjoy all that God has in store for him.