Towards unity: Udupi diocese hosts all-religion Christmas celebration
Pics: Umesh Marpalli
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (KR)
Udupi, Dec 6: With the aim of fostering harmony and peace in society, the Udupi diocese in association with Catholic Sabha unit of Mother of Sorrows Church on Friday December 6 hosted an all-religion Christmas celebration that saw leaders from different communities converge on a single platform.
Bishop of Udupi diocese Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo presided over the programme. The chief guests were Dr Ratish Johnson, director of CSI Lombard Memorial Hospital, Dr Gananatha Ekkar, head of Kannada postgraduate studies department, Tenkanadiyoor Government College, Dr Mohammed Rafiq, administrative director of Tonse health centre, and Fr Fred Mascarenhas, parish priest of Mother of Sorrows Church.
Bishop of Udupi inaugurated the event by switching on the lights. The bishop along with the other guests cut the Christmas cake amid much joy and cheer.
Addressing the gathering, Bishop Dr Gerald said, "God speaks in only one language, and that is the language of love. There is a strong bond of love between god and people. It is an eternal love, one that forms the basis of human life. It is this love that we celebrate with so much joy during Christmas."
He further added, "About 2000 years ago, god sent Jesus Christ to teach everyone the language of love, and to make people realize that 'god is love - love is god'. The Son of God came to the world to get rid of the lies and save the truth, to drive away the darkness within us and enlighten us. The Son of God came to strengthen the bond between man and god, and propogate love among people. He led by example and sacrificed himself for the entire mankind.
"For those who question god's existence and the existence of peace in this world, Christmas comes as a reminder that 'god is with us'," he added.
"Christmas is a celebration of peace and love. It creates an atmosphere of joy in our houses, offices and everywhere. Each one of us should walk in the path of Christ and inculcate the spirit of sacrifice and selfless service. We must first learn the language of love and dedicate our lives to the task of spreading love," he said, wishing everyone gathered a joyful and merry Christmas.
Dr Gananath Yekkar congratulated the organizers on conducting such a meaningful programme. "Christians brought quality education, hospitality and improved healthcare. I have witnessed this personally, as I worked in a Christian institute for more than 5 years. When we understand the root value of any religion then we will start to love each other. Understanding values is most important of all."
He added, "All religions are build on the values of peace, brotherhood, love and humanity. Real celebration is when we understand these values."
Dr Rafiq said, "If we respect each other's feeling then there will be love, faith and harmony in society. Nearly 70 percent of the Indian population needs help in many ways from the remaining 30 percent. Most importantly, they require love and care."
Dr Johnson paid tribute to South Africa's iconic leader Nelson Mandela who passed away on December 6. In his address, he said, "Christmas is not only a celebration but a lovely gift from god to mankind. It brings love, peace and salvation. As a doctor I would say, donate your valuable organs to the needy if possible."
A special highlight of the evening was a skit depicting the life of St Sebastian, performed by the NGO White Doves. More than 150 artistes of the troupe sang Christmas carols, and conveyed a meaningful message through the act. Santa Claus distributed gifts to children at the end.
Earlier, Christmas carols were sung by the choir members of Udupi church and CSI church. Udupi church youngsters also entertained the audience. Cake was distributed to all. Christmas cake lucky draw was also held.
Fr Fred Mascarenhas welcome the gathering, Alphonse D’Costa proposed the vote of thanks and Fr Denis D’sa compered the programme.
Lesile Cornelio, president, Catholic Sabha Udupi unit, Boniface D’Souza, Nithyanada Valakadu, Edwin Alva, Walter Martis, Budan Basha and others were present.