Every child longs for Christmas to fill their home with happiness.
But for many boys and girls living in poverty, this festive holiday does not bring tidings of comfort or joy. For children like Promise, it is a painful reminder that life should have good things to offer—and yet, once again, they are missing out.
Promise lives in Malawi, where he is now a university student. He joined Children of the Nations (COTN) as a little boy and knows how poverty affects a child’s view of Jesus and His birth.
Before coming to COTN, Promise’s family did not celebrate Christmas due to financial hardships. His mother would take Promise and his siblings to church to praise God for the gift of life and commemorate the birth of Christ, but they could not afford any gifts or parties.
“I thought Christmas was only for rich people and not for the poor,” said Promise.
Promise in 2010
Through Children of the Nations’ annual holiday parties, Promise has been able to celebrate Christmas with local staff and students in his community. He says, “The Christmas party is very important to me. It makes me feel a sense of belonging as we meet with different people and celebrate together. It is like a get-together celebration where I can meet fellow [university] students who I haven't seen in a long time. We share ideas and stories from our colleges.”
His favorite part? That has changed as he’s gotten older.
As a child, Promise loved receiving “gifts like rice, chicken, cooking oil, salt, soya pieces, soap, and clothes.” He says, “These gifts allowed us to enjoy Christmas just like others in our community. I remember wearing new clothes on Christmas and showing them to my friends.”
Now, as a university student, Promise is most excited to gather with friends around the Christmas table.
“It is a special occasion, and I enjoy the food we have at the dinner.”
Promise today as a university student
For Promise, celebrating Christmas at COTN has reminded him that the importance is still on who we celebrate, not just how we celebrate.
“Now, I understand that Christmas is not about clothes or food; it is about the birth of Jesus Christ in our hearts. Every Christmas party I attend reminds me that the Lord Jesus Christ should be born in my heart.”
Your generosity enables children like Promise to celebrate Christmas in community. Click here to support our annual COTN Christmas celebrations.
Children excited to open their gifts
By Former Staff at Children of the Nations