Midnight Mass

Last night, as we were driving into Kitongo, Fr. Henry greeted the local catechist who going the other way on his bicycle. The catechist informed Fr. Henry that he had Midnight Mass. He had known that he had two masses the next day, but the information about Midnight Mass was new. He told the catechist he would be a little late, but that he would be there.

Midnight Mass, which like many places at home was not at midnight, but rather 9 PM, and started when Fr. Henry arrived. As soon as we pulled up, the drum started beating, letting people know that mass would be beginning shortly.

The church was lit by candles and lanterns, not for mood, but because there was no electricity. It felt much closer to the original Christmas than my usual urban/suburban experience. There were a bunch of kids sitting in the front. They listened with more attention to Fr. Henry's homily than many American kids would give to Saturday morning cartoons.

The church is simple, very rustic, but beautiful. As usual, the kneelers were not padded. I've sort of become used to that, I haven't seen a padded kneeler since I arrive here, not even in the cathedral. Personally, I would be happy to stand, but kneeling seems to be the custom here, and I'm not going to argue.

The mass was in Luganda, so I didn't understand a word, except when Fr. Henry interjected a bit of English for my benefit. Other than the readings, the difference in language is no big deal. I pretty much know how the mass goes.