Shaloom Mission: CHRISTMAS DAY 2014

For to us is born this day, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord! (Luke 2:11)
The crib at the Bwiru outstation church

Our Christmas celebration began with midnight mass, which actually began at 9pm at our Bwiru outstation church, but lasted until almost midnight because Tanzanian people really like to talk and the announcements lasted longer than the homily! There weren't near as many in attendance this year, due to the heavy rain that fell during the day and into the evening. Most everyone walks to church.

Bwiru outstation church during Advent

I'm always impressed with the way the church is decorated for the different liturgical seasons. So much time and effort goes into the decorations.


Bwiru outstation church for midnight mass!

There were a number of young people who made their 1st Holy Communion at the midnight mass. Most all of the baptisms, first communions and weddings in our parish are celebrated during the Christmas and Easter seasons. The day after Christmas over 200 babies and small children were baptized at the main church! (posting to follow)

Because there wouldn't be a meal served at our regional house on Christmas Day, Corine had an opportunity to show off her culinary skills. She prepared a variety of different dishes, beginning the preparations days in advance! Those in attendance were Fr. Tony (Ireland), Fr. Jean-Baptist (Benin), and Fr. Robert (France), Lucas (an SMA seminarian from Ivory Coast studying in Nairobi), Marga (Holland) and her three "adopted" children (Tanzanian), Corine (Holland) and myself (USA). It always fascinates me that our SMA gatherings are so international but we always feel like family. What a blessing!

Some of Corine's Christmas decor

Corine, Marga & Fr. Robert

Lillian, Ally & Careen

Fr. (Santa) Jean-Baptist

Lucas & Fr. Tony in the background

I don't enjoy cooking nearly as much as Corine does. My pleasure is in baking. One of my students from last year stopped in for a visit while I was baking some of my Christmas cookies. He was fascinated with the whole process and was eager to lend a hand. I couldn't refuse!