A Posada journey: a Christmas 'safari supper' for youth groups

A creative and thought-provoking evening of food, fellowship and fun as you share the Christmas story

Originating in Mexico, Las Posadas (a Spanish term meaning ‘lodging place’) is traditionally a nine-day celebration of Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter. Adapted in some contexts to a single night (a Posada), people dress as Mary and Jesus, leading a procession around the neighbourhood, visiting various houses and knocking on doors, where they are turned away (because there is no room at the inn), until they finally arrive at the church to be welcomed in.

How to run a youth Posada

• This resource combines La Posada with elements of a ‘safari supper’. Members of the youth group either dress up as Mary and Joseph or create figures to represent the holy family. 
  
• On the chosen night, they visit several houses where they are refused entry.
• We suggest that the ‘innkeepers’ offer the travellers food for the journey – either something to eat as they walk, or they contribute an ingredient towards a meal cooked at the final location.

This three-page PDF contains:

• Logistical tips and menu suggestions - helping you to set up and run the evening practically and safely in your context
• A suggested script for the 'innkeepers' to use when the group knocks their door
• A worship outline for when you reach your final destination including prayers, music and discussion starters
  
• Links to music tracks and thought-provoking artwork.