This article and photos were submitted by the Rev. James Manship.
The parishioners of St. Rose of Lima showed their appreciation for two officers who patrol the Fair Haven neighborhood, and their respect for two fallen NYPD officers, during their celebration of “Las Posadas.”
Church members warmly welcomed, showed their appreciation and prayed for New Haven Officers Michael Hurley and Michael Danielle (pictured with Francisco Martinez and his children) last Tuesday night during their celebration.
Parish leadership wanted to express their support for the New Haven police in the wake of the murders of two New York police officers, and extended an invitation to Hurley and Danielle, through their new district manager, Lt. Darcy Siclari.
“Las Posadas” are a series of nine evenings leading up to Christmas that commemorate the search of Mary and Joseph for lodging (posada) to give birth to Jesus. Traditional food, music and the breaking of a piñata are used as reminders of the importance of welcoming the Niño Divino.
The theme of hospitality — welcoming the stranger, particularly those in need — invites participants in “Las Posadas” to give lodging to those who need a safe place; a place to encounter the one who dispels the darkness.
Maria Pabon, a parish leader, drafted the officers to carry the “posada” containing figures of Mary and Joseph to the parish hall, where the officers enjoyed some atole (corn/chocolate based hot drink), tamales, sweet bread, and many personal expressions of appreciation from those gathered.
Hurley and Danielle were presented to the church community, and they and their fellow officers were thanked for their service and willingness to risk their lives for the safety of the community.
The police officers were given a hardy round of applause. Officer Hurley took up the microphone to thank the congregation for their prayers and their hospitality.
Parishioners of St. Rose of Lima also offered prayers over the weekend for fallen New York Police Officers Rafael Ramos and Wenjian Liu, for their families, and for the local police.
