Which churches hold Christmas services in Zambia that travelers can attend?
Many churches across Zambia welcome travelers to join their Christmas services, which often take place on December 24th and 25th.
Major Churches For Christmas Services
Seventh-day Adventist Churches: Due to strong membership growth in Zambia, several Adventist congregations perform special Christmas services. These services frequently involve singing, nativity plays, and community outreach initiatives. Travelers can attend celebrations at local Adventist churches in places such as Lusaka and Livingstone.
Catholic Churches: The Catholic Church in Zambia also observes Christmas, with midnight Mass on Christmas Eve and services on Christmas Day. These services feature traditional hymns and community gatherings. Major cities, like as Lusaka, have multiple Catholic parishes that welcome guests over the holiday season.
Pentecostal and Evangelical Churches: Many Pentecostal and Evangelical churches hold festive Christmas services with music, dance, and theater presentations. These ceremonies frequently emphasize community engagement, inviting participants to bring presents for the less fortunate. Notable churches include the International Church of Lusaka and different branches of the Assemblies of God around the country.
Apostolic Churches: Various Apostolic churches, such as the New Apostolic Church and the Apostolic Faith Church, celebrate Christmas with their customs, which may include outdoor services and traditional African music. These churches are common in various parts of Zambia and frequently host special events for both residents and foreigners.
Festive Activities
Christmas Eve Celebrations: On December 24, many Zambians assemble for midnight services, which are frequently seen as more important than Christmas Day. Carols are usually sung and the birth narrative is acted out throughout the services.
Participation of the Community: During these services, it is typical for churchgoers to bring presents to give to less fortunate members of the community. This custom emphasizes the giving mentality that is essential to Zambian Christmas festivities.
Since many congregations will have special activities scheduled for both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, visitors hoping to attend a Christmas service in Zambia should check the schedules of the local churches.