25-12-2023 : Christmas reverberated with religious fervor and exuberance throughout Jammu and Kashmir as people of the Christian community gathered to celebrate this joyous occasion. The churches witnessed a significant influx of faithful individuals, forming long queues outside, eagerly waiting to offer prayers and partake in the festivities. Christmas, marking the birth of Jesus Christ, was commemorated with special prayers for peace, prosperity, and brotherhood.
Special prayers resonated within the adorned churches, emphasizing the values of peace and unity. People from diverse communities extended their greetings and exchanged thoughtful gifts, fostering a spirit of camaraderie. In Jammu, the grand Mass at the Catholic Church in Gandhi Nagar attracted hundreds of devotees who engaged in celebratory prayers amid the festive decor of balloons and buntings.
The faithful, dressed in vibrant attire, exchanged heartfelt wishes of Merry Christmas. Visitors to the Church conveyed the message that Jesus Christ was a messenger of peace and brotherhood, emphasizing the need for tranquility in Jammu and Kashmir. They lauded the community spirit in Jammu, urging other regions to follow suit and promote intercommunity bonds rooted in love.
Another notable celebration unfolded at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Prem Nagar, where Parish Priest Fr. Kuriakose, Asst. Parish Priest Fr. Suhail Joseph, and the faithful marked Christmas with joyful festivities. The night service, beginning at 10 pm, saw a large turnout seeking the blessings of Baby Jesus, while the morning service on December 25 continued the celebration with prayers for peace and blessings.
The essence of Christmas, encompassing religious fervor, joy, caroling, and a spirit of sharing, echoed in the hearts of the people. The faithful emphasized that Christmas is not just about external decorations but about cleansing one’s heart to live peacefully and joyfully in the world.
Fr. Kuriakose, in his homily, highlighted the love of God towards humanity and urged everyone to welcome the birth of Jesus into their hearts. Despite the world’s differences and enmities, the faithful prayed for global peace and joy, extending their wishes for a harmonious Christmas in the entire country.
In Kashmir, amidst freezing temperatures, Christmas celebrations unfolded with enthusiasm. Christian devotees, braving the cold, gathered at various churches for Mass, exchanging gifts and offering prayers for peace and unity. The Holy Family Catholic Church on Maulana Azad Road in Srinagar witnessed a significant congregation, adorned with festive decorations.
The father at Holy Family Catholic Church expressed delight at the overwhelming participation, not only from the Valley but also from various parts of the country. Prayers were offered for world peace and harmony among people, showcasing unity and togetherness.
Tourists from different regions joined the festivities, and prayers were offered for global peace and brotherhood. Similar celebrations took place at other churches, including Saint Joseph’s Church in Baramulla, the oldest Catholic Church in Jammu and Kashmir, and a church in the picturesque Gulmarg.
In Batore and Ramban, Goshen Church celebrated Christmas under the supervision of Pastor Sarapheen Sunny. The occasion was marked by carol singing and children singing songs about Jesus, adding to the traditional enthusiasm and joy of the festive season.