How many loaves have you? (Mark 6:30-44)
15th June 2011 - by Nathalie Marytsch
This was the title given to this years’ interdenominational Women’s world day of prayer on 4th March 2011,which was dedicated to Chile this year . Nathalie, Bernardita (from Chile) and Rose (from the Philippines) were invited to a Service in a Methodist church in Selly Park, Birmingham. Nathalie spoke of her country with great pride. She writes:
As I was preparing my talk I started wondering; what am I going to say in those few minutes? People could google it today if they were interested in Chile, or even get information from a book. It was a chance to tell people about where I come from, where it is in the map or to simply clarify that although Chile by its name might give the impression that it is a cold country, it isn’t. At least we know ‘for certain’ that in Chile there are a few months of summer and can therefore rely on some nice temperatures to enjoy the beach or the countryside. I could speak about the beauty of our nature, the snow-covered Andes mountain or the Atacama dessert (the driest in the world), how natural disasters have struck the lives of our people or even concentrate on an update on the lives of the 33 miners that were trapped in the San Jose mine for 69 days until they were successfully rescued. After a lot of thought I decided to share with the congregation what it means to me to be a Chilean.
I am proud of being Chilean because I believe we are welcoming people, we show hospitality, even in the poorest homes, by sharing whatever little people may have. If a friend comes around the house unannounced and there isn’t much to share at the table, we will divide whatever there is or sometimes maybe it means adding some more water to the soup!
We have developed a strong sense of community and solidarity. Maybe this is due to our history, our trials to overcome poverty or our daily struggles to live in a just and peaceful society. Whenever there has been an earthquake, landslide, floods or any other natural disaster communities/neighbours will stand by each other, gather what they have to share. Some may even offer an space to sleep, cook together, fight for protection. Young and not so young volunteers will be gathered by different organisation to go with the first aid to assist in re-establishing basic supplies (food, clothes, shelter). Others may straight away start organising fund raising events in order to get the relief needed.
I believe that for us family is very important and continues to be at the centre of our society. Unlike the small nuclear family, extended-family occupy an important role, the ties remain close even after a couple has set up its own home. Kids meet their cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents regularly. Nowadays, however, with women having to go out to work the family dynamic has changed. Families tend to gather around to celebrate any special occasion; baptisms, birthdays, weddings, saint day. People will find any reason to spend time together!
How many loaves have you? I think that we Chileans have got loads but need to be constantly reminded to share what we have not only at times of greater need. Sharing not only our earthly possessions but our values, our time and our love. I am a Chilean and I am proud of that. I am sure you are also proud of where you come from or belong to , whether it is a country a community or a family. Let’s be reminded to share our loaves with our neighbours, friends and loved ones always.
