December 23, 2005

Readers share favorite Christmas memories

Christmas in Tanzania is an interfaith celebration

By Charlene Duline
Special to The Criterion

Many years ago, I had a most wonderful, unexpected Christmas in Tanzania. I was the cultural attaché at the U.S. Embassy in Dar es Salaam.

A few days before Christmas, an older American woman came into my office seeking information for her research. I learned that she was a professor at Temple University in Philadelphia, and that she was staying at the local YWCA—a most dreary place.

I could not let her remain there when there was plenty of room at my inn. I lived alone—unless you count my dog—in a three-story house with four bedrooms and four bathrooms, and I loved having guests.

I liked Ruby immediately. After talking to her for some time, I invited her to move into my residence to spend Christmas with fellow Americans. She was delighted.

A dear friend, Fatma, a Muslim from Zanzibar, was also coming to spend Christmas with me. In the days before Christmas, the three of us were kept busy with holiday festivities, including a huge Christmas party that I hosted for friends. We laughed a lot and had a wonderful time together.

On Christmas Day, I went to Mass after leaving tiny presents for Ruby and Fatma. That afternoon, we had a traditional American Christmas dinner at the home of another American diplomat. We held hands and prayed before the meal.

Fatma and Ruby were welcomed by everyone they met because they were warm and outgoing.

That was one of the most unexpected Christmases I have ever had. Who knew that my little fold would include a Muslim, a Catholic and whatever faith Ruby professed?

Our hearts were open to receiving and giving and welcoming. Each of us felt especially blessed. What a memorable Christmas.

(Charlene Duline is a member of St. Monica Parish in Indianapolis.) †

 

Local site Links: