Mali and It’s Christmas
Mali is a country in Western Africa comprised of several ethnic groups that each have customs and traditions of their own.
Although it is mostly a Muslim country, Christmas is celebrated here and it is nationally known as a public holiday.
With this being the 12th poorest country in the world (although the eighth largest in Africa), Christmas in Mali tends to be much less lavish than in other places, such as America.
Malians spend most of the Christmas season putting the focus on church and worship.
After all, the true intentions of Christmas are to celebrate the birth of Jesus, and the people of Mali prefer to keep that mindset.
What Christmas in Mali is Like
Beginning with Christmas Eve, the people unite at church, where a series of sermons and religious performances are shared.
Also around this time (on Boxing Day, which is December 26th), water baptisms take place for those that are officially ready to accept Christianity as their religion.
Additionally, the women of the church go around to different nearby areas to sing and praise God, while encouraging others to do so.
The church’s choir will also take part in these actions. Throughout this trek, they will receive donated money for the church, and sometimes other small gifts along the way from those that are in a position to contribute.
In fact, the church and worship are so much in the limelight during this time in Mali that some residents may spend roughly 30 hours, or perhaps more, taking part in their religious rituals.
With that being said, Christmas gifts do not take the forefront here. They may be exchanged, but only for those who can afford to do so, which is not most.
Mali may be considered a poor country, but is rich in culture and continues to be fortunate when it comes to things that money can’t buy – family bonds, community spirit, and respectable values.
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Main Points About Christmas in Mali
- For Malians, Christmas celebrations are mostly done in churches. To them, it helps them remember the true essence of the celebration.
- The Christmas festivities begin on Christmas eve with an all-night church service that features, performances by groups, carols, worship, and preaching.
- On Christmas day, it is not customary to give and receive gifts. Only those who can afford it do.
- Many baptismal services are scheduled on Boxing Day. Where Christians openly declare their followership to Jesus.
- Malians are not really big on any form of Christmas decorations. Little decorations are done in Churches and some public places.
Conclusion
Even though Mali is mainly a Muslim country, Christmas is a public holiday as well. Most Christmas celebrations are held in churches, starting on Christmas Eve.
Not many people, except for in the rich families give each other presents, but its customary to give a small gift of money to the groups of women and Church choir who go from house to house singing Christmas carol, dancing and greeting people after Christmas.
Word Cloud for Christmas in Mali
The following is a collection of the most used terms in this article on Christmas in Mali. This should help in recalling related terms as used in this article at a later stage for you.
- https://prezi.com/0sixpjh-cpe1/christmas-in-mali/
- http://www.castlebar.ie/columns/kevin_mcdonald/Christmas-in-Mali.shtml
- https://www.officeholidays.com/holidays/mali/christmas-day
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Mali’s simple yet profound approach to Christmas emphasizes the significance of faith, community, and humble celebrations.
The focus on church, faith, and community values during Christmas in Mali is a testament to the enduring spirit of the holiday.
It’s inspiring to witness Mali’s commitment to preserving the spiritual significance of Christmas, offering a refreshing perspective on the true essence of the holiday.
Mali’s Christmas traditions beautifully reflect the values of faith, humility, and community, delivering a powerful message about the true spirit of the holiday.
It’s heartwarming to know that despite the economic difficulties, Mali has preserved the importance of church and worship during Christmas.
Mali’s dedication to maintaining the true spirit of Christmas without materialism is laudable.
The focus on religious aspects of Christmas in Mali is truly remarkable. We can learn a lot from their traditions.
Mali’s unwavering focus on religious and community aspects of Christmas serves as a poignant example of celebrating the holiday with true humility and faith.
The traditions of Christmas in Mali emphasize faith, humility, and community, which are overshadowed during the holiday season in other parts of the world.
Admirable that the people of Mali prioritize values like family bonds and community spirit over material gifts during Christmas.
Mali’s approach to Christmas disproves the notion that wealth equates to happiness. They value what truly matters.
Mali’s approach to Christmas reflects a deep respect for traditions and commitment to the spiritual essence of the occasion.
While many focus on materialism, Mali’s Christmas embodies the essence of what the holiday is truly about.
In a world filled with consumerism, Mali’s Christmas celebrations are a refreshing reminder of the true meaning of the holiday.
Mali’s Christmas traditions serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of spiritual values over material wealth, particularly during the holiday season.
Mali’s Christmas customs are a testament to the enduring significance of faith and community in our celebrations.
The simplicity and faith-centric nature of Christmas in Mali is truly enlightening, offering a different perspective on the holiday.
The emphasis on church, worship, and community spirit while celebrating Christmas in Mali is a source of inspiration for many.
Despite being a poor country, Mali’s Christmas festivities highlight the intangible values and traditions, which is admirable.
This article provides a beautiful perspective on Christmas traditions in Mali, highlighting the essence of faith and community in their celebrations.
A country with rich culture and values, they have decided to maintain the essence of Christmas as a religious and not commercial celebration. Impressive.
Malian approach to Christmas is commendable. It’s refreshing to see the true meaning of Christmas, not overshadowed by commercialism.