Old Tradition

[BlueRain]

My mom was telling me that when she was a kid in Mexico they had an old tradition that I think has been lost. The people from the town used to go to the little church on Christmas Eve, when midnight came, a little baby Jesus doll was presented to the people. Then people would go and cradle the baby in their arms and kiss it. I think that was lovely, especially for the children. I wonder if anyone in any other country still does that?

 

[puzzleannie]

The Italians also have a devotion to Gesu Bambino, I saw a similar thing in the Italian parish in which our son was baptized.

 

[LSK]

My Italian Grandmother used to put the Baby Jesus into the Nativity scene on Christmas Eve. First, however, she would pass it to every member of the family to be kissed and welcomed.

 

[puzzleannie]

in checking my booklet from the diocese of Laredo on bilingual rituals for Hispanic parishes–I was looking for the Posadas prayers and songs–I found the blessing of el Nino Jesucristo as you describe it. It can be carried in the entrance procession for Midnight Mass, or blessed and venerated after Mass. We have a similar custom of visiting the creche after Christmas Masses.