Grand Christmas celebrations in Mysuru

Christmas fervour pervaded Mysuru with churches, homes and business establishments sporting colourful lights, Christmas trees and other decorations to mark the occasion.

Christmas celebrations began on Tuesday night with the Apostolic Administrator of Mysuru Diocese and Archbishop Emeritus Bernard Moras leading the prayers at the historic St Philomena’s Church on Ashoka Road in the city.

A large number of people participated in the midnight Mass conducted in different languages, including Kannada and English, on the occasion.

Mr. Bernard Moras also carried an idol of Infant Jesus and placed it in a specially decorated crib at St. Philomena’s Church on Tuesday night.

Prayers were held on Wednesday also. The St. Philomena’s Church was teeming with a large number of devotees and tourists on Wednesday.

Several other churches in Mysuru also wore a festive look with colourful lights. Many commercial hubs, malls and supermarkets were decorated for the occasion.

Christmas message

In his message on the occasion of Christmas, Mr. Moras said: “Christmas is a season of joy and peace. It’s the sparkle of lights that brighten our streets, the laughter shared with loved ones and the joy found in giving, not just gifts but also our time, care and kindness. It’s a season that calls us to reflect on life’s blessings, to celebrate the bonds we share and to carry the spirit of generosity and goodwill into the year ahead,” he said.

“Christmas is not just a historical event; it is much more than that. It is the expression of God’s love for humanity. Christmas is not a feast celebrated by Christians alone,” he said.

“Almost all the people in the world celebrate Christmas in their own way. Let this holy season remind us of the importance of unity, compassion and the power of a kind word or gesture. In a world that sometimes feels divided, Christmas reminds us that the things that unite us — love, hope and humanity — are far greater than things that separate us. Let us continue to support one another, celebrate each other’s successes and face the future together,” he said in a statement.

Published - December 25, 2024 07:44 pm IST