Ft. Pierre keeping Christ Child until next Christmas

The “levantada del Niño Dios” is a Mexican tradition, celebrated mainly on February 2 (Día de la Candelaria), which marks the end of the Christmas season. It consists of removing the figure of the Child Jesus from the crib, dressing him in new clothes, and often lulling him with songs, and praying, symbolizing the presentation of Jesus in the temple and the purification of the Virgin Mary. This celebration is a moment of family unity that formalizes the farewell of the Child Jesus from the manger, keeping him until the next Christmas. The “Godparents” of the Baby Jesus are those who found a miniature statue of the Baby Jesus in the Rosca — a special cake prepared for the feast for Three Kings on January 6.

They are (left to right) Nicholas Moore, Martha Vallejo, Efren and Mireya Velasquez. Godparents are asked to bring next year’s Rosca and tamales. (Courtesy photos)