Much was prepared for Christmas Day, both spiritually and materially, with decorations, choir, food and dance activities. It was a great gathering of parishioners from different outstations for a warm and communal celebration of Christmas.
When the clock struck 7:00 pm, the celebration of Mass began. The Mass was presided over by Fr. Steven Ochieng, assisted by Fr. Fernando Aguirre as con-celebrant and Deacon Dominic as the serving deacon. The joy of the night swelled with the welcoming of catechumens who received their First Holy Communion and Baptism. This signified the growth of the Church and the living witness of the Gospel.
Christmas is not only about having the best dishes or dancing to sweet melodies; it is about remembering the birthday of Jesus Christ, who was born for us. As the Deacon emphasised in his homily, the meaning of Christmas lies in the very heart of our faith in the mystery of the Incarnation, God-made-flesh dwelt among us. It is a time to renew our love for one another, to forgive, and to share with the poor and needy, just as Christ shared His love with the world.
Mass concluded with the Christmas dance, a beautiful chaos of devotion and order as parishioners expressed their joy before the altar.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all!
By Louis Mkweza
MCSPA Apprentice,
Benga Mission [Malawi]
