Of every holiday, Christmas is the one celebrated most around the world. The reach of the gospel is far-ranging, and Jesus’ birth has shaped the traditions and customs of nations because of it. As we look forward to Christmas Day, we’re praying that the coming weeks would be a time of great hope and joy for God’s people in Haiti.

Here are a few of the things you might see while celebrating a Haitian Christmas.

• “Merry Christmas” in Creole is “Jwaye Nwèl.”
• Early in December, Haitians decorate their homes with pine branches or Christmas trees.
• On Christmas Eve, people share in a late-night celebratory meal, “Reveillon,” which usually takes place after an evening church service.
• December 24 is also when children fill their shoes with straw and place them under the tree, hoping Santa (“Tonton Nwèl” in Creole) will replace the straw with presents.
• Christmas Day is filled with relaxing and spending time with family.

Join us in praising God for the work of the gospel around the world, and pray with us that this Christmas season would bring salvation to many, both at home and worldwide.

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” —John 3:16

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