January 7th is Christmas day in Ethiopia, the holiday of Genna. The word Genna is used interchangeably with the word Christmas, to mean the birth of Jesus Christ (leddat). Traditionally the day before Genna people fast and then stay up until early morning mass at 4:00 in the morning. Most Ethiopians will dress in a traditional Shamma, a thin white cotton wrap with brightly colored stripes across the ends (usually green, yellow and red). The people receive candles as they enter their church to attend mass, which can last up to three hours. After lighting the candles, everyone walks around the church three times, then they all remain in the church until the service is complete.
Unlike how we celebrate Christmas in the US, Genna isn't traditionally a gift giving holiday. Besides the religious aspects, people look forward to the traditional feasts and games. The feasts consist of wat (thick, spicy stew of vegetables and/or meat) and injera (spongy bread). A hockey type game, Genna (the same name as the holiday), is played with a curved stick and round wooden ball (usually made from locally grown trees), is played by the men and boys.
This weekend we plan to attend an Ethiopian Christmas party with the Ethiopian community and other adoptive families! Right now our daughter is celebrating her first Christmas in Ethiopia without us, but we are looking forward to spending BOTH Christmas celebrations ALL together next year.
Melkam Gena!
***Genna can also be referred to as Gena***
Ye Ledit Beaal!
ReplyDeleteI like the way Genna or Christmas is celebrated in Ethiopia better than the U.S. tradition. It keeps the focus on the original purpose. Going to local Genna gatherings this coming weekend in Portland is a great way to celebrate your daughter's birth country and keep a family observance of one of its great traditions. Our children are a most wonderful gift that we give to each other and your daughter is exactly that. A wonderful gift for you to treasure and enjoy.
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