Letanía facts for kids

Litany Para Pedir Posada (meaning 'Asking for a place to stay' in English) is a special song sung during Las Posadas. These are traditional Christmas celebrations in some Spanish-speaking countries in Latin America. In Mexico, Las Posadas are a big part of the holiday season. They are sometimes called part of The Guadalupe-Reyes Marathon.

What is Las Posadas?

Las Posadas is a nine-day celebration. It happens before Christmas, from December 16th to December 24th. The word "Posada" means "inn" or "shelter" in Spanish. This tradition remembers the journey of Mary and Joseph. They were looking for a place to stay in Bethlehem before Jesus was born.

During Las Posadas, people often dress up as Mary and Joseph. They go from house to house. They sing songs asking for a place to stay. The people inside the houses pretend to turn them away at first. This is just like the story in the Bible. Finally, one house lets them in. Then, everyone celebrates with food, music, and fun.

The Story in the Song

The song "Litany Para Pedir Posada" tells the story of Mary and Joseph. It is sung as a dialogue between two groups. One group is "Afuera" (outside), representing Joseph and Mary. The other group is "Adentro" (inside), representing the innkeepers or hosts.

• Outside: Joseph asks for shelter. He explains that his beloved wife cannot walk anymore.
• Inside: The host replies that it is not an inn. They tell Joseph to go away. They worry he might be a robber.
• Outside: Joseph asks for kindness. He says that God will reward the host for their charity.
• Inside: The host gets annoyed. They tell Joseph to leave and not bother them. They even threaten to beat him up.
• Outside: Joseph explains they are tired. They have come all the way from Nazareth. He says his name is Joseph and he is a carpenter.
• Inside: The host does not care about his name. They just want to sleep. They insist they will not open the door.
• Outside: Joseph then says that the "Queen of Heaven" is asking for shelter. She only needs it for one night.
• Inside: The host starts to get curious. They ask why a queen would be traveling alone at night.
• Outside: Joseph explains that his wife is Mary. She is the Queen of Heaven. He also says she is going to be the mother of God.
• Inside: The host finally realizes who they are. They say, "Are you Joseph? Is your wife Mary? Come in, pilgrims! I did not know you."
• Outside: Joseph thanks them for their kindness. He wishes them happiness from heaven.
• Inside: The host feels happy. They say their house is blessed for hosting Mary.

Singing Together

After the door is opened, everyone sings together. This part of the song celebrates the arrival of Mary and Joseph. It welcomes them into the home.

The song says:

• "Come in, holy pilgrims! Receive this corner!"
• "Even though the place is poor, I offer it to you from my heart!"
• "Let's sing with joy! Everyone at the thought!"
• "That Jesus, Joseph and Mary came today to honor us!"

This part of the song shows the joy and welcome. It marks the end of the journey for Mary and Joseph. It also starts the celebration for everyone involved in Las Posadas.

Where is it Sung?

This special song is a big part of Christmas traditions. It is sung mainly in Mexico. It is also popular in other Latin American countries. These countries have a strong Spanish-speaking culture. The song helps keep the story of Mary and Joseph alive. It reminds people of the true meaning of Christmas.