What Is Las Posadas?
Las Posadas—meaning “the inns” or “lodging”—is a beloved Catholic Advent tradition that retells Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter before the birth of Jesus. Even so, it’s more than a reenactment. It’s a lived reminder that Advent is not passive. Instead, Advent prepares our hearts to recognize Christ and make room for Him.
As our students prayed, sang, and listened to Sacred Scripture, we weren’t just remembering Bethlehem. We were practicing hospitality—and learning how to welcome Jesus in the ordinary moments of life.
Why We Keep This Tradition at Royalmont
At Royalmont, Catholic tradition is never an “extra.” In addition, it’s a cornerstone of formation. Las Posadas gives students a tangible way to enter the story of salvation: they move, they sing, they listen, and they respond. As a result, faith becomes something they experience—together.
- Intellectual formation | Students learn the meaning behind the tradition and its connection to Advent and the Gospel.
- Human formation | Students practice patience, reverence, courage, and joyful participation as a community.
- Spiritual formation | Students pray, sing, and hear the Word proclaimed, forming habits of worship and trust.
- Apostolic formation | Students learn that faith is meant to be lived publicly—bringing joy, peace, and welcome to others.
Student Leadership Across the Grades
One of the most beautiful parts of Las Posadas is watching students of different ages lead and serve one another. Our youngest students bring innocence and delight, while older students step forward with confidence—proclaiming Scripture, guiding prayers, and helping the tradition unfold with order and warmth.
In other words, this is what accompaniment looks like in practice. Students learn the faith, and they also learn how to carry it for others.
When the Doors Open
Las Posadas is honest. At first, the door remains closed. The pilgrims knock. They ask. They wait. Yet the tradition always turns toward welcome—because the heart of the Gospel is that Christ comes to us, even when we are distracted, busy, or unsure.
Then the moment arrives: the welcome. The shift is visible. Faces soften. Smiles appear. The room feels lighter—because something in us recognizes what Advent has been teaching all along:
we are made to receive Him.
And Then… Joy
And when Christ is finally welcomed, the only fitting response is joy.
We close with Feliz Navidad—and yes, dancing. There’s an unmistakable joy in the room, written all over our students’ faces. Not because it’s a performance, but because it’s the natural fruit of the story we just lived: after waiting comes welcome, and after welcome comes rejoicing.
What Las Posadas Teaches Us
Las Posadas teaches our community to slow down long enough to notice what matters. It reminds us that hospitality is holy, and that Christ still comes quietly—asking for room. As we continue through Advent, we pray that every Royalmont family finds small, practical ways to “open the door” for Him.
If you’re exploring Catholic education and looking for a place where tradition is lived with warmth, clarity, and joy, we would love to welcome you.
Learn more about Royalmont Academy and schedule a visit.
FAQ: Las Posadas at Royalmont Academy
What is Las Posadas in the Catholic Church?
Las Posadas is a Catholic Advent tradition that reenacts Mary and Joseph’s journey as they search for shelter before Jesus is born. It’s often celebrated with prayer, song, and a procession over several days leading up to Christmas.
Why do Catholic schools celebrate Las Posadas?
Catholic schools celebrate Las Posadas because it helps students enter the story of the Incarnation in a memorable way. In addition, it forms habits of prayer, hospitality, and joyful faith.
Is Las Posadas only for Hispanic families?
Las Posadas has strong roots in Mexican and Latin American Catholic culture, but it’s a gift to the whole Church. At Royalmont, we celebrate it as a shared tradition that welcomes every family into Advent.