Christmas in Rwanda

We had our first Christmas in Rwanda. I wasn't sure what to expect but I knew it would be different than Christmas in America....and it was. It has been such a blessing to have found Christ Church of Rwanda (CCR). CCR is located in Kigali so we drive into the big city to attend the weekend service. Pastor Dave Jenkins and everyone have done a good job of welcoming us into our new church.

CCR had worship services on Friday night (Christmas Eve), Saturday morning (Christmas day) and on Sunday for a regular worship service. After worship on Sunday we were all treated to a delicious catered lunch which was a mix of traditional Rwanda type food and also typical American cuisine. So Andria and I spent time celebrating Jesus' birth by worshipping at CCR.

Santa even showed up after worship and before the lunch.

So Santa looked a little different but hey, we are in Africa! I think the biggest difference (and remember this is from a very limited perspective) is that the commercialism of Christmas isn't near the level of America. Some department stores had Christmas tress and lights as well as even Santa..but nowhere near the hype of America. I was also surprised with the lack of church attendance on Christmas Eve. Pastor Dave said a lot of families are at their families "Catholic" churches. Attendance was lower on Christmas Eve than it is on a typical Sunday.
But apart from the attendance and "hype" stuff it just felt very different. Being our first Christmas I am sure that it will evolve as we go. It actually was quite refreshing to be able to relax and enjoy and focus on the real "reason for the season".