CHRISTMAS IN ZIMBABWE
(Formerly of Zimbabwe, now living in Brixham, Devon)
The only really recognisable part of Christmas was at St. Paul’s. No, not Big Brother on Ludgate Hill, but his minion in Marlborough, Zimbabwe. With an enthusiastic congregation and Junior Church, a full programme of worship was always held, starting with a Crib Service (ostensibly for the youngsters) and continuing with the Service of Nine Lessons and Carols, Midnight Communion on Christmas Eve and two morning services on Christmas Day – 7.00am English and 9.00am Shona (the vernacular). Traditional (Colonial) decorations, flowers, tree and vestments, with a party for the children and a “Family Fun Day” for the adults – the festive season lived up to its name!
It was a family affair for the family of St. Paul’s and a good time was always had by all.
Away from the church, people celebrated in their gardens with swimming parties, braais (braaifleis – the Afrikaans word for barbecue), sundowners and general gaiety … or people took themselves off to the hills or to a hotel and were waited on luxuriously. If it rained, no one minded for in the rainy season rain was the most precious gift of all. Otherwise the sun shone, the air was sweet with blossom, the grass was green (if the owner watered it) or yellow if not, the birds sang, the cicadas did what cicadas do, flying ants and mozzies made their presence known. It was one big fiesta/siesta!
Smoke drifted from the fire, wafting smells of mouth-watering meats being expertly prepared by the beer-swilling ‘cooks.’ Occasionally servants were present doing the necessary ‘back-up services’ but mostly they were away in their home areas with their families, enjoying their roasted goat or chicken and quaffing mealie beer with their sadza. They had probably sung their praises to their God under a tree or in a local church. Their children womenfolk were dressed in their Christmas finery, bought with the bonsella from the boss and the madam. The city streets were decorated with fairy lights and displays, with a large tree at the centre point, glittering in the sunshine with tinsel and baubles. Radio and television presented appropriate entertainment and the local repertory group offered an excellent pantomime. Apart from the weather, it was typical northern hemisphere Christmas, duly accepted by the Africans who were – who are – strong in their Christian faith.
Much has changed in recent years … St.Paul’s, like so many Anglican churches, is no longer accessible to genuine Christian worshippers, as it is now the ‘property’ of the ex-communicated Bishop Kunonga who admits to Idolising President Mugabe. Worship is now conducted in the school hall, with the blessing of the Anglican headmaster – a situation that has existed since 2008. But the spirit is alive and well; the singing is a joyous as ever. Christmas is still a special and revered occasion.
