Down
through the ages, light from fire has served as a destination
beacon for weary travelers. Two thousand years ago shepherds
marked the way to the manger of the Christ Child with small
bonfires. For centuries, to symbolize this tradition, the people
of Mexico have gathered on Christmas Eve to light large bonfires
in the village commons, to pray, sing and welcome the Christ
Child. After the celebration, smaller bonfires were built in
front of each home to welcome the Baby Jesus. During the 19th
century in northern New Mexico, these bonfires were made from
criss-crossed pinġn sticks to light the path to their homes.
Early in the 20th century, one family had been unable to
adequately prepare the traditional home bonfire because of
illness in their family. As the holiday season drew near, the
youngest child placed a broken candle in a paper bag partially
filled with sand, and placed it outside their home to keep the
tradition and welcoming spirit alive. These "little lights" or
farolitos have become one of the most popular ways for people to
extend this custom to the present day.
Today, as we use luminaries
for many occasions, we can bring together traditions of the past
and the convenience of the present. With SIMPLY LUMINARIES, you
too may continue this age-old custom in any type of weather in a
safer, easier, and more environmentally friendly way.
