December 17, 2008
Hello, Stoneleigh. This week we walked another 103 miles in Paraguay. Before we leave the country, let’s learn about the holiday they are preparing to celebrate.
Right now, children are very excited about a holiday called “The Nativity” or “Navidad.” In Paraguay, it’s summer right now, the weather is warm, and there are blooming flowers EVERYWHERE. Early in December, holiday decorations, especially the manger scene, or nativity, are set up in homes, on the streets, in factories, and in the shopping centers. The nativity must be in every Catholic home.
Churches and homes are decorated in bright colors to match the colorful flowers. At midnight, church bells will begin to ring and call the people to mass. This ceremony is called “The Mass of the Rooster.” Families set off a huge fireworks display at midnight on Christmas Eve to celebrate the nativity. Presents are normally only given to children.
January 6th is the Feast of the Epiphany or the Feast of the Three Kings. The children of Paraguay set out a pair of shoes with letters to the Three Kings on this night and the Three Kings bring presents to the children.
We hope you’ll do a lot of walking over the holiday. Look at the bulletin board and our blog for the story of creation from the original Paraguay religion and more about children in Paraguay! Keep Walking Stoneleigh!
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