Greetings this holiday season! The Christmas season in 2023 was a truly memorable one, as I had the opportunity to experience the holiday in three distinct settings – an English school, a Japanese church, and an international gathering at a German teacher’s condominium in Tokyo. Great sharing the spirit of Christmas to both the locals & internationals in Tokyo, Japan this 2023!
At Olives English School, the Christmas celebration was organized on a class-by-class basis, allowing each group to showcase their unique talents and skills. In my class, we put together a lively activity featuring traditional games and ate special snacks. The camaraderie and excitement among the students were palpable, as we all came together to share the joy of the season.
Later in the week, I attended the Candlelight Evening Service at a local Japanese church in my neighborhood. The dimly lit sanctuary, adorned with twinkling lights and the soft glow of candles, created a serene and reverent atmosphere. The service was a beautiful blend of Japanese and Western traditions, with the congregation singing hymns in Japanese. The Bible readings about the prophecy and its fulfillment, delivered in Japanese, touched on the universal themes of hope, peace, and the true meaning of Christmas.
As the holiday drew to a close, I had the privilege of attending a gathering at the condominium of a German teacher, who had invited a diverse group of international friends and colleagues. The living room was filled with laughter, good cheer, and the aroma of traditional German Christmas treats. We shared stories, exchanged gifts, and learned about the unique holiday customs from different parts of the world. It was a truly enriching experience, a testament to the power of cultural exchange and the shared joy of the Christmas season.
Christmas 2023 – a multicultural celebration of my favorite season of the year! The three distinct experiences during this year allowed me to immerse myself in the diverse tapestry of cultures that make up the vibrant city of Tokyo. From the lively celebrations at my English school to the reverent service at the neighborhood Japanese church, and the warm international gathering at the German teacher’s home, I was reminded of the universal appeal of the Christmas spirit and the beauty of coming together to celebrate our shared humanity.
Praying we all have a wonderful celebration of Christmas – the true spirit of the season. Looking forward to the next celebration of Christmas with the hope that more and more people will realize its true meaning and purpose.
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