The above is in Malagasy, the language of Madagascar, where I am currently serving.  I figured out the translation of ‘Jesus Christ’ but was unsure about the other two words – a friend shared the translation:  “Jesus Christ is the Center”  Amen.

I spent two Christmases in Madagascar in 2014 and 2015, but those were Christmases with the Africa Mercy and all the fantastic opportunities available onboard the hospital ship.  This year, I celebrate Christmas ‘on land’ in Madagascar. 

I received an invitation from a local ministry here where their children and teens shared the Story of Jesus’ birth and served the community children lunch and gave them a gift.  Till today, which was their Christmas celebration, the staff and I served them as they performed the drama of the birth of Jesus and time of singing and dancing and eating rice, zebu (beef), and carrots and receiving their gift.  
Christmas Eve, a group of us Mercy Shippers will attend a friend’s church for their Christmas program – available in Malagasy and English.  Then, on Monday, Christmas Day, I will join a missionary family here in the area.  I wish all of you a special Christmas season, wherever you may be.   
 

Here are links for two Christmas songs you may recognize but probably have not heard in this language.  

Hobiana – Feliz Navidad  – fun video with pom poms at a party

O Holy Night – sung in Malagasy – lyrics in English – this same church has a congregation near Toamasina, which I visited.  
 

Merry Christmas