Christmas is in the Air!

Last Wednesday, my class participated in a singing competition. Since it is getting close to Christmas, I suggested we sing some Christmas carols in Chinese. We ended up singing “Silent Night” (Ping An Ye) and “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” (Zhu Ni Sheng Dan Kuai Le). Our teacher gave us these hats to wear, and while we didn't make it into the final performance of the competition, we had a fun time.

This past weekend, I went to the Shanxi province to see my friends before Christmas. Even the city of Taiyuan is getting ready for Christmas, as you can see from the picture of the city's cathedral, which is currently being renovated. Although I am not a Catholic, it is interesting for me to note Catholicism's long history, not only in China, but also and notably in the Shanxi province. Some resemblance of Christianity has existed in China for centuries, as this cathedral and the surrounding complex of this Catholic church's buildings clearly testifies.

While many people here have the impression that Christmas is all about shopping and Santa Claus, the churches all across China are preparing for massive amounts of people who will visit during the holiday weekend. Although I am away from family and friends this year, it is exciting to experience the “Holy Birth Holiday” (literal translation of the Chinese) here in China. As you prepare for this weekend, may your hearts be filled with true joy and peace!