Bangalore Archdiocese Organises Christmas Get-together
Media Release
Bangalore, Dec 23: "Service to humanity is the best method to reach God," said Hans Raj Bhardwaj, governor of Karnataka. He was speaking on the occasion of a get-together organized by archdiocese of Bangalore on Thursday December 22.
He said Christmas is synonymous with peace, tranquility and compassion, and added that he believed that Jesus Christ loved people and what he has given to humanity is the message of Christmas. "The best way to reach God is by love and service to humanity," he said, "there is no salvation without access to the blessings of the Lord. The objective of service is to get the favour and kindness of God."
He further said, "There is darkness before people and to get light is through one’s religion and thereby get access to God by following a course of method. Jesus Christ gave a message for salvation by loving others. Christianity (Christian religion) stands for this message of love. Father of the nation gave this message of love and made sacrifice so that others could live."
The Governor exhorted all present to pray for others and to give part of one’s life and prosperity for the society. "Fathers and sisters devote their lives for others. All are proud of them. If one feels like following them to dedicate themselves, he or she is a blessed person."
He wished all people of Karnataka happiness. "All share the same sentiments for peace, prosperity and well-being for humanity. Everyone is duty-bound to share what each one has received." Complementing archbishop Moras’ services to all, he said Dr Moras is available always for all.
Jyothi Prakash Mirchi, police commissioner, said it was a great and unique day where one could see people live in unity, peace and harmony. He stressed the importance of people joining hands with each other. In the absence of peace and tranquility, life is not comfortable. One should live a God-fearing life. The police commissioner urged the elders to take up the responsibility of telling the youngsters to lead an exemplary life loving each other. "Young people should not have enmity among themselves, instead, one needs to buy peace. If the elders fail to guide the young, the world would go awry. So many things are painted attractive, but they are not good for them. It is the duty of the elders to dissuade them from destructive things of the world. Children might get their way lost, then the elders need to lead them in the right path," he said.
Earlier, Archbishop Moras welcomed the governor who was the chief guest and all others. He spoke on the meaning of Christmas. He said Christmas is beyond all barriers. "It is a joyous occasion. The message Jesus gave is meant for all and is suited for even in this modern time." The archbishop made a mention of the thoughts of Swami Vivekananda. "Jesus shed his blood for the life of humanity and there is nothing greater than giving one’s own life for others," said and called upon those present to follow the footsteps of Jesus to serve humanity selflessly.
The Archbishop announced during the programme that D V Sadananda Gowda, chief minister won the Council by-election and thanked him for withdrawing the cases against those arrested in connection with the attacks on Christian institutions. However, he appealed to the government to reject the Somashekar Commission report as the government has neither accepted nor rejected it. He also prayed for a stable government and in particular for the Chief Minister.
Among those present on the occasion were legislator K J George, High Court judge, top police officials, principal secretary to chief minister, German Consul General besides various others including priests, nuns, business people and social workers
Students of St Teresa’s School, Chamrajpet and St Joseph’s School and Junior College and several others performed dance and presented songs.
Fr A S Anthony Swamy, PRO and Chancellor who concluded the programme proposing vote of thanks.
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