The Aryavarth Express
Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh):
St Mary’s Church in Ayodhya was illuminated with festive spirit on Christmas Day, as the church was beautifully decorated with twinkling lights, stars and cribs, drawing members of the local Christian community to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.
Father Raymond, the priest in charge, expressed joy over the celebrations and the enthusiasm of the congregation. “It is Christmas today. The church has been decorated. This is a seven-year-old church, and Christmas is a universal festival. Children are especially excited,” he said.
As devotees gathered for prayers, the atmosphere was filled with hymns, warmth and a sense of togetherness. Father Raymond welcomed everyone and highlighted the message of Christmas as a festival of love, unity and peace. The vibrant decorations reflected the community’s excitement and made the occasion memorable for all present.
Meanwhile, dense fog enveloped Ayodhya, intensifying the ongoing cold wave as the city celebrated the festival.
Across the country, cities were seen embracing the festive spirit of Christmas. Streets, markets and homes were adorned with lights, bells, wreaths and decorated Christmas trees. A special prayer meeting was held in Noida on Christmas Eve, while churches in Siliguri and Vijayawada made elaborate preparations for the celebrations.
In Dharamshala, devotees gathered at St John in the Wilderness Church to offer prayers and light candles. Priest Victor Khoji explained the symbolism behind the ritual, saying that the candlelight represents Jesus as the light of the world and reflects the belief that faith and prayers bring hope.
Christmas Eve prayers were also held at Christ Church in Shimla, St Mary’s Cathedral in Ranchi and St Michael’s Church in Mumbai. In Mumbai, the Church of Our Lady of Victories resonated with Christmas carols and hymns as devotees came together to mark the occasion.
Celebrated every year on December 25, Christmas commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and carries messages of peace, love and harmony. Families gather to share meals, exchange gifts and sing carols, while churches across the country host special prayers, creating an atmosphere of faith, joy and togetherness that unites communities worldwide.
