fter the first seven months of language studies in Dhaka, often in the midst of the city chaos, I was transferred in a country mission, close to India, in the West border of Bangladesh, during the Christmas of 2001. It was an challenging experience, from the city life to Bhabarpara which is completely surrounded by rise and grain fields.
The fifth anniversary of my stay in Bhabarpara, during this Christmas season, helps me to reflect and tell the story of Christmas lived by many small communities of faith, about 300 of them, both Catholic and Protestants which represent about the 0.5% of the population, like the small mustard seed of the Gospel parable. There are about 140 million people here, most of them Muslims, and about 10% Hindus.
Christmas in Bangladesh is a key moment for all Christians. We try to create an atmosphere of true love which involves everyone, and goes beyond cast or religious affiliation. The various celebrations are expressions of the culture of each individual community, and they are imbued with Western stories and rituals, such as the Novena of preparation of the Christmas celebration, the advent of classical music, the singing in Gregorian chant or Latin melodies, traditional prayers and Carols like the famous “O Come all ye Faithful” in the local language.
Accompanied by dances and songs, young women, with their colorful painted faces and elegant gowns, go in procession to welcome the celebrant. And the “Go in Peace” ritual preludes a welcoming sharing of greetings and hugs and stories and joy which continue through the journey home.
Interesting enough, the material gifts and shopping has not yet influenced their lives, thank God. It is considered of much less importance. Merry Christmas.
(From Xaverian News)