Happy Independence Day

Stands such as this photo are on every corner. They started appearing on September 1 and are full of items that people might like to buy to celebrate Mexican Independence Day, September 16. For about two weeks now stores, buildings, and homes have begun decorating for this day. There are flags and red, green and white bunting from almost every building. People are getting ready for this celebration that rivals everything else in Mexico.

A short history lesson- In the early hours of September 16, 1810, a priest, Father Hidalgo rang the bell of his little church and called everyone to fight for their liberty. This was the beginning of the war against Spain and it lasted 10 years before Mexico won their independence.

On the evening of September 15 the main plaza in each town of Mexico gradually fills with people until there is almost no room to move. In Mexico City, the historic bell is hung on the government building in the main square but every town square in Mexico has a replica (small or large) of the bell that Father Hidalgo rang in 1810. Everyone watches the clock and when the clock strikes 11:00 p.m., the crowd becomes quiet. The president of the town steps out onto a balcony and rings the bell. Then the president gives the Grito de Delores. He shouts "Viva la Independencia" and then shouts the names of the Independence War heroes. The crowd echoes back his words. This culminates with everyone shouting "Viva Mexico" (Long Live Mexico) while confetti, streamers, noise makers and fire works abound.

September 16, the actual Independence Day is full of parades, speeches, etc. and is a legal holiday for all.

It has become the custom for evangelical churches to host their own Independence Day celebration and this year I will be attending the celebration at the Seite Regiones (Seven Regiones) Covenant Church in the city of Oaxaca. We have been promised great food, great music, mariachis and a great time thanking God for the country of Mexico.

And for any of you still convinced that Cinco de Mayo is Mexican Independence Day--Cinco de Mayo (5th of May) actually commemorates the Mexicans victory over the French in Puebla in 1862, long after Mexico had won its Independence from Spain.