Summary

In this section, narration continues in the third-person past tense. Chapter 36 begins three days before Christmas. Natasha, the pastor from Judson Memorial, emails Neni and asks if she will come in and talk with her. Neni goes back to the church the next day but does not tell Jende. She meets the assistant pastor, Amos, and tells them that she is not sure what she believes and if she wants to become a Christian. Natasha tells her that she is welcome in the church regardless. She and Neni discuss parenthood and Jende’s deportation, and Natasha pledges her and the church’s support. Neni leaves the church with restored hope and walks by rows of people protesting the bailout. She thinks that one day she will be a citizen and will be able to protest with them. When she tells Jende about her...