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Katholische Mission Portugiesischer Sprache

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Imagine celebrating Christmas with a touch of Portugal right here in Nuremberg. The Katholische Mission Portugiesischer Sprache brings Portuguese traditions to life.

The Katholische Mission Portugiesischer Sprache is a vital hub for the Portuguese-speaking community. It offers spiritual guidance and cultural connection. For over two decades, Padre Dr. Joaquim Carneiro da Costa has led this mission. He ensures the community stays connected to its roots.

At Christmas, the mission truly shines. Padre Dr. Costa celebrates multiple masses. These take place in Nuremberg, Bamberg, Würzburg, Miltenberg and Schwarzenbach. The main office is here in Nuremberg where he lives.

One unique tradition is the “Missa do Galo” or “Hahnen-Messe.” It is the Portuguese name for Christmas Mass. While traditionally at midnight, it now often occurs earlier. In Bamberg, Christmas Mass attendance more than doubles. Children and teens enact the Christmas story. A choir rehearses specially for Easter and Christmas.

The Katholische Mission Portugiesischer Sprache embraces diverse musical traditions. They sing Portuguese versions of classic carols. “Noite Feliz” is their version of “Silent Night.” They also incorporate Brazilian and African folk songs. “A todos um Bom Natal” meaning “We wish you all a Merry Christmas” is always sung.

A beautiful tradition involves the figure of baby Jesus. During Christ Mass, people would kiss the figure. The priest holds the figure. Parishioners approach and kiss it. A cloth is used to wipe the figure after each kiss. This ritual was altered due to Corona.

Padre Dr. Costa misses specific Portuguese Christmas foods. “Batatas com Bacalhau e couves” that means cod with potatoes and cabbage is a must. This specific cabbage is hard to find in Germany. The Katholische Mission Portugiesischer Sprache tries to recreate this taste of home.

“Bolo Rei” meaning King Cake is a popular treat. Families in the community bake and share it. This cake is similar to German Stollen, filled with fruits and nuts. A bean or toy figure is hidden inside. Finding it once meant paying for the next cake.

The Katholische Mission Portugiesischer Sprache helps keep Portuguese Christmas traditions alive here in Nuremberg. It offers a sense of belonging. It is a place where faith and culture intertwine. It is a welcoming community for all.

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