The Ethiopian Christmas known as Ganna is celebrated on
January 7th. This celebration takes place in ancient churches carved from solid
volcanic rock and also in modern churches that are designed in three concentric
circles. Men and boys sit separately from girls and women. Also the choir sings
from the outside circle.
People receive candles as they enter the church. After
lighting the candles everyone walks around the church three times, then stands
throughout the mass, which may last up to three hours.
Food served at Christmas usually includes injera, a
sourdough pancake like bread. Injera serves as both plate and fork.
Doro wat, a spicy chicken stew might be the main meal. A piece of the
injera is used to scoop up the wat. Baskets decorated beautifully are used
to serve the wat.
Gift giving is a very small part of Christmas celebration.
Children usually receive very simple presents such as clothing.
In Ethiopia Christmas day is January 7, so on Christmas Eve
the city is crowded with pilgrims from all parts of the country. They remain
outdoors all night, praying and chanting. In the morning, a colorful procession
makes its way to a nearby hilltop where a service is held. Three young men march
at the head of the crowd, lashing whips from left to right to keep the people in
line. Those who worship are fed with bread and wine that has been blessed by
priests. After the service
