Summary of "Christmas in Tehran During the 1979 Iran Hostage Crisis"
The New Yorker Radio Hour delves into a compelling and personal narrative surrounding the Christmas of 1979, amidst the tumultuous Iran Hostage Crisis. Hosted by Adam Howard, the episode offers an intimate glimpse into his father Reverend M. William Howard Jr.'s unexpected journey to Tehran to conduct Christmas services for American hostages. This summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting key discussions, insights, and emotional moments.
Introduction: An Unexpected Invitation
The story begins with Reverend M. William Howard Jr., a prominent minister and president of the National Council of Churches, receiving an unusual telegram on December 22, 1979. This invitation from the Revolutionary Council of Iran requested him to lead Christmas services at the U.S. Embassy in Tehran during the unfolding hostage crisis.
Adam Howard recounts:
“I have a personal, sort of unusual holiday story to share with you today. It starts back in 1979.” [00:53]
Reverend Howard, along with other clergymen like William Sloane Coffin and Bishop Thomas Gumbleton, accepted the invitation despite the escalating tensions and fears surrounding the crisis.
Context of the Hostage Crisis
The Iran Hostage Crisis erupted when Iranian revolutionaries seized the U.S. Embassy, holding over 50 American diplomats hostage. This political upheaval was primarily a response to the U.S.'s support for the Shah of Iran, who had fled to the United States for cancer treatment.
Adam Howard explains:
“During the hostage crisis, revolutionaries in Iran invaded the embassy because of America's ties to the Shah.” [03:25]
The clergymen's mission was both a humanitarian effort and a strategic move to alleviate public unrest and prevent potential military interventions.
Journey to Tehran: Navigating Uncertainty
Upon arrival at JFK Airport, Reverend Howard and his colleagues were swiftly escorted through private channels to Tehran. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as media from around the world sought to document this unprecedented visit.
Reverend Howard shares:
“We arrived in Iran. We were escorted to the Hilton Hotel. It was like a circus with people from all over the world wanting to meet us.” [12:30]
Their reception at the embassy was both ceremonial and tense. They were blindfolded and separated, signifying the precariousness of their mission.
Engaging with the Hostages
Once inside, Reverend Howard met the hostages for the first time. The initial interaction was marked by suspicion and uncertainty. However, as conversations unfolded, a bridge of understanding began to form.
Reverend Howard recalls:
“I said, look, I have a family. I'd rather be at home, but doggone it, I agreed to come over here because the nation is concerned about you.” [20:14]
They conducted a short prayer, which served as a moment of solace and reflection for both the clergymen and the hostages.
Cultural and Religious Sensitivities
The episode highlights the delicate balance Reverend Howard had to maintain between respecting the hostages' diverse religious beliefs and introducing Christmas traditions. The Iranian captors, predominantly Shiite Muslims, aimed to honor the Christian faith of the hostages without imposing their own religious narratives.
Reverend Howard explains:
“We wanted to show respect for the Christian faith. It was essential to acknowledge their beliefs without imposing our own traditions.” [06:12]
Challenges and Tensions
Despite the peaceful intentions, tensions remained. Reverend Howard’s colleague, Bill Coffin, momentarily veered towards provocative remarks, drawing a parallel to the Vietnam War and suggesting a potential removal of hostages. This incident underscored the fragility of their mission.
Reverend Howard recounts:
“Bill backed down right away when he made those comments. It was a reminder of how delicate the situation was.” [24:10]
Additionally, interactions with the Shiite mullahs revealed the deep-seated grievances against U.S. policies and the legacy of the Shah’s regime.
Impact and Reflections
Upon returning to the United States, Reverend Howard faced intense media scrutiny and public reaction. His appearance on shows like Donahue highlighted the polarized perceptions of the hostage crisis and the role of American support for the Shah.
Reverend Howard reflects:
“The people were angry, they were uninformed. That combination was pretty dangerous.” [29:01]
The experience profoundly influenced Adam Howard’s understanding of Christmas and faith. He realized the profound sense of vulnerability and reliance on faith that arises when individuals are stripped of their autonomy.
Adam Howard shares:
“In the Iranian hostage crisis, I understood how alone we are and how powerless we are when other people take control. It’s in that setting that one can develop faith.” [30:12]
Conclusion: A Legacy of Faith and Compassion
Reverend Howard's involvement in the crisis not only provided comfort to the hostages but also served as a testament to the enduring power of faith and compassion amidst political turmoil. His legacy extends beyond the crisis, influencing movements like the anti-apartheid struggle and leading theological education at the New York Theological Seminary.
Adam Howard concludes:
“That's my father, Reverend M. William Howard Jr., a pillar of faith and resilience.” [32:18]
Notable Quotes
- Adam Howard: “I have a personal, sort of unusual holiday story to share with you today. It starts back in 1979.” [00:53]
- Reverend Howard: “We agreed to conduct Christmas services because the nation is concerned about you.” [20:14]
- Reverend Howard: “We want to show respect for the Christian faith without imposing our own traditions.” [06:12]
- Adam Howard: “In the Iranian hostage crisis, I understood how alone we are and how powerless we are when other people take control.” [30:12]
- Reverend Howard: “The people were angry, they were uninformed. That combination was pretty dangerous.” [29:01]
This episode of The New Yorker Radio Hour offers a poignant exploration of faith, diplomacy, and human resilience during one of the most challenging periods in U.S.-Iran relations. Through Reverend Howard’s firsthand account, listeners gain a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in providing solace and support amidst geopolitical strife.