Christmas Traditions

Johnson Christmas Tradition - Santa always stops at the Johnson's Christmas Eve to visit with the children and grandchildren. Even in Guatemala the Johnson's arranged for Santa to visit with some of the grandchildren. Matt Olsen family and Jared Johnson family were not in place where we could Skype so the younger ones had the visit from Saint Nick. Leah was having a slight 'attitude' because she just woke up but Trindon seemed to be intrigued with Santa. Caitlin and Shae loved seeing Santa too, although they were just a little timid to converse with him.


Santa visiting with Dakoda via Skype. He's not sure of what he is seeing on the computer screen. Great photo!!

Elder and Sister Call were asked to play Santa and Mrs. Claus at the CCM this evening for all the missionaries. They said the missionaries were just like little children and so excited to sit on Santa's lap. There was one missionary from the Dominican Republic expressed it was the best Christmas he has ever had and the first time he has ever received a gift. You never know the circumstances and family conditions these young missionaries come from. When you hear stories like this, we should all be grateful for the bounty of blessings we have in our lives. The Call's certainly made their evening. Games were played, lots of food and ending with a visit from Santa.


Posada is a re-enacting the sojourn of Joseph and Mary searching for sanctuary wandering through the neighborhoods in the evening accompanied by music and song. This tradition takes place every evening during the month of December. A family member or neighbor welcomes Mary and Joseph in where they celebrate and the We witnessed this Posada in Antiqua. It's been interesting to be in a Christian Nation during this Holiday season. It may be politically incorrect to wish people in the U.S. a "Merry Christmas" or place a nativity scene or reference to diety on public property, there is no such thing in Guatemala. Reference to the Savior is publicly displayed - signs sponsored by local merchants expressing gratitude for to see.



The most interesting traditions that we enjoyed was the City's tradition of welcoming the Savior with light and sounds. "Coyetes" go on sale weeks before Christmas and you hear booms and blasts throughout the season. At the stroke of midnight on Christmas Eve, the entire city lights up with fireworks. If you want to see what I am talking about - go to Youtube for Guatemala Fireworks. It is unbelievable and undescribable how the city lights up in every direction. We celebrated Christmas Eve on the 17th floor of a high rise witnessing a spectacular display.

Birthdays are celebrated by setting off fireworks too. Our first few nights in Guatemala we thought we were near an artillery range. There were booms all night long into the wee hours of the day.