LETTER WRITING
If you're writing a Christmas card to your child in Guatemala, here are some things to remember:
- Christmas is an especially festive occasion. In the nine days before Christmas, posada processions march down streets, punctuated by drumbeats and fireworks. These posadas re-enact Joseph and Mary's search for shelter in Bethlehem. During the parade, participants sing Christmas carols and recite questions and answers about Jesus. The parade concludes at a house, where participants enjoy a party with punch, hot tamales, music and dancing.
- Compassion has Christmas celebrations at all projects. Although Christmas is perhaps the most important holiday for Guatemalans, some evangelical denominations discourage the celebration of Christmas.
- Guatemala is a country of many traditions and holidays; many holidays are of Catholic origin. Holy week is very important, and most places have a work holiday starting on Wednesday. During this season, it is common to see the famous processions in the streets that remember the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
- On November 1, "All Saints Day" is celebrated and families get together and eat a Guatemalan dish called fiambre. It is similar to a beet and carrot salad with many different types of hams, sausages and delicacies. On this same day, many indigenous towns make giant kites with beautiful decorations; the most famous ones are those of the town of Santiago.
- Because Christmas is such an important holiday, one that coincides with the year-end school vacations, most Compassion child development centers remain closed between December 15 and January 15.
Information Regarding Language Differences:
- In Spanish-speaking countries, "culto" means "worship service."
Write your child a letter.
GIFT GIVING
Child Gifts
Below are some examples of what a monetary gift can purchase for your child in Guatemala:
$15 and under: ball, blanket, doll, lamp, pants, shirt, tools, toy
$25 and under: book, clothes, shoes
Give your child a gift.
Family Gifts
Below are some examples of what a monetary gift can purchase for your child's family in Guatemala:
$100 and under: bike, chicken, food, mattress
$200 and under: cow
Give a family gift.
Learn more about your child's country.
