December 17, 2010
Guadalupe celebrations held throughout diocese
Nativity Church children, who were taught by Gaby Montoya, dance in the Offertory procession at Nativity Church Dec. 12. Click for a larger version.
By PAUL R. LEINGANG (Message editor)
Bishop Gerald A. Gettelfinger presided at Mass on Dec. 12 at Nativity Church in Evansville, one of six celebrations in the Diocese of Evansville honoring Our Lady of Guadalupe.
An outdoor procession planned to take place before the Mass was cancelled because of the snow and cold. But at Mass, a Mariachi band, Indian dancers, a drum and ankle bells helped keep up a spirited celebration.
Other celebrations in the diocese were at St. Mary Church in Huntingburg and at St. Joseph Church in Jasper, both on Saturday evening.
The Huntingburg celebration included a procession, Mass and refreshments on Saturday evening. In Jasper, a Rosary in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe was recited at 10:30 p.m., followed by Mass at 11 p.m. and Mañanitas and refreshments at midnight.
On Sunday, early morning Masses were celebrated at St. Joseph Church in Dale and at Holy Spirit Church in Evansville. An afternoon Mass and meal were held at Our Lady of Hope Church in Washngton.
Advent and Christmas traditions for the Latino community include Las Posadas. The His-panic tradition of walking with Joseph and Mary looking for an Inn will be celebrated throughout the diocese beginning on Dec. 16. In Huntingburg, Las Posadas will be held from house to house until Christmas, according to a news-letter from the Guadalupe Center in Huntingburg.
A parish Posada will be held at Our Lady of Hope Church in Washington on Dec. 19, beginning at 3 p.m. at the Middle School Gym, continuing with a bilingual Mass at 3:30 p.m. in the church and finishing with refreshments. For more information, contact the Guadalupe Center.
A Children’s Christmas Party will be held on Dec. 18, at the Guadalupe Center from 9 to 11 a.m. Santa Claus will be present and the children will have the opportunity to take pictures with him. Snacks and crafts will be part of this activity. Gifts from Toys for Tots will be given to children whose families have registered.