Strennas Novena in Chile - December Calendar
The Novena de Aguinaldos is one of the most deeply rooted and significant festivities in Chile during the Christmas season. This religious and cultural tradition is celebrated from December 16 to 24, marking the nine days leading up to Christmas Eve. During this period, Chilean families gather to participate in prayers, sing Christmas carols and share special moments in the company of loved ones.
Origins of the Novena de Aguinaldos
The Novena de Aguinaldos has its roots in colonial times, when Spanish Catholic missionaries brought this tradition to Chile. Its original purpose was to teach the story of the birth of Jesus and spiritually prepare the community for the celebration of Christmas.
The term "Aguinaldos" comes from the Latin "augurium", which means omen or congratulation. During colonial times, priests and religious gave small gifts or "aguinaldos" to indigenous people as a way of sharing the Christmas message and strengthening their faith. Over time, this practice evolved and became a popular tradition throughout Chilean society, where indigenous, Spanish and Creole elements were mixed to give rise to La Novena de Aguinaldos as it is celebrated today.
The Novena of Aguinaldos in the Present
Currently, La Novena de Aguinaldos has become one of the most anticipated and beloved festivities in Chile. It is a special occasion for families and communities to come together in prayer and reflection as they prepare for the arrival of Christmas.
The festivity begins on December 16 and ends on December 24, Christmas Eve. Every night, families gather in their homes or in churches to participate in prayer and the recitation of the rosary, which is combined with the reading of biblical passages that tell the story of the birth of Jesus.
Christmas carols are also an essential part of La Novena de Aguinaldos. Families come together to sing Christmas songs celebrating the birth of Christ and expressing their devotion and gratitude to the Virgin Mary.
During the Novena, moments of conviviality and fraternity are also shared. Families prepare special meals and come together to share delicious dishes typical of the Christmas season, such as tamales, empanadas, custard, and buñuelos. In addition to the prayers and songs, another important part of La Novena de Aguinaldos are the Christmas bonuses, small gifts that are exchanged between family and friends. Christmas bonuses can be simple objects or symbolic gifts that represent the spirit of Christmas and brotherly love.
The Strennas Novena in Chilean Society
The Novena de Aguinaldos is not only a religious tradition, but it is also a symbol of the cultural and spiritual identity of Chilean society. Through this festivity, values of unity, love, solidarity and hope are transmitted.
It is common for communities and neighborhoods to organize to celebrate La Novena de Aguinaldos together. People come together to decorate their homes with Christmas lights, candles and decorations, creating a festive and welcoming atmosphere across the country. In addition, La Novena de Aguinaldos has also been preserved and enriched by the cultural diversity of Chile. In different regions of the country, local traditions and customs are incorporated into the festivity, reflecting the cultural richness that characterizes Chile.
The Spiritual Meaning of the Novena of Aguinaldos
Beyond the cultural dimension, La Novena de Aguinaldos is a festivity that has a deep spiritual meaning for Chileans. During these nine days, the aim is to strengthen faith and hope in a moment of unity and reconciliation with God and with others.
The Novena de Aguinaldos is an opportunity to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and remember the message of love and peace that the birth of Jesus brings. It is a time to forgive, reconcile and share moments of love and joy with those around us. The figure of the Virgin Mary occupies a special place in La Novena de Aguinaldos. Homage is paid to her as the mother of Jesus and a symbol of hope and protection. During these nights, requests and thanks are expressed to the Virgin Mary, who is considered the spiritual mother of all Chileans.
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