Christmas sermons call for peace, harmony and unity
Times of India | 25 December 2024
Kolkata: From building bridges with people to practising harmony, peace and togetherness, Christmas sermons in Kolkata emphasised core human values on Tuesday.
Archbishop Thomas D'Souza said: "Christmas is about why God became man. He became a human being like us to build a bridge between God and ourselves, and that bridge was a bridge of love. Love builds bridges, and we are called to carry out the same mission — we must be bridge builders. We must live a holy life and be concerned about others."
Bishop of the Kolkata diocese of the Church of North India, Rev Paritosh Canning, said: "As we honour Jesus, who embodies tranquillity, solidarity, compassion, acceptance and affection, let us embrace these virtues in our daily lives. During these celebrations, we should incorporate these noble principles into our behaviour and actions. In a world filled with discord and animosity, it becomes essential for us to cultivate harmony, togetherness, and understanding amongst all people. We must actively promote these values."
At St Teresa's Church in Moulali, the midnight mass started at 11 pm with Christmas carols. The facade of the church was illuminated with colourful lights and bright stars. Father Subroto delivered the sermon, which reflected the meaning of Christmas. "We need peace now more than ever. The true essence of Christmas is to come forward to heal those who are suffering. Celebrate the festival by sharing with your family, friends and neighbours," said Father Subroto.
Catholic Association of Bengal in a statement said: "We pray for peace, love, heath and togetherness in the world and the country and specially for our city."
At the Church of Christ The King on Syed Amir Ali Avenue, the midnight mass started at 11:30 pm and continued till 1 am. "Never lose hope. Always have faith in the Almighty and you will never return disappointed," said a member of the church.
Christmas was celebrated with grandeur and devotion at the historic St Thomas Orthodox Cathedral, Taltala, on Tuesday evening, with a night vigil that drew a large congregation. The service was led by His Grace Dr Gabriel Mar Gregorios, Metropolitan of the Trivandrum Diocese, as the chief celebrant, along with Rev Fr Jobin P Abraham, the vicar of the Cathedral.
(With inputs from Zeeshan Jawed & Sudipto Das)
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