Daijiworld Media Network – Abu Dhabi 
 
Abu Dhabi – Dec 7:  It was carnival atmosphere in the premises of St. Joseph’s Cathedral – Abu Dhabi throughout the day on Friday 6 December 2013, as thousands converged to participate in the Christmas festival organized by the church authorities.
 
It was a rare sight to witness the sea of people belonging to various nationalities and races participating in the spirit of brotherhood mingling joyfully to show their solidarity to help the church in the construction of new churches and donate generously towards the charitable projects all over the world.
 
Various communities and associations had  stalls of  assorted culinary delights along with  games stalls catering to the taste of one and all.

Earlier in the day the festival was innaugurated by his Lordship.H.E. Paul Hinder, Bishop of Vacariate of Southern Arabia who gave his christmas message of love and peace.  Fr. Savarimuthu – the parish priest in his speech said that the festival is being organized in the St. Joseph’s parish since the last 26 years and appreiciated the support of the parishoners towards the church projects.
 
The grand arrival of Santa Klaus on a sports car at the venue in a unique way was applauded by the the audience.  The crowd became ecstatic when Santa greeted the audience in  more than 12 languages to the cheers of the multilingual crowd.
 
A beautiful and meaningfl tableau presented by the Philipino community on the birth of Jesus was apt for the the occasion, which was followed by melodious Christmas carols sung by the young children.  The day also witnessed variety entertaiment presented by various church associations.
 
H.E. Bishop Paul Hinder went around the premises greeting the volunteers and parishoners appreciating their efforts. There were also spot prizes etc throughout the day.
 
The evening had a grand raffle draw with attractive prizes on raffle tickets and entry coupons.  The premises was filled with people enjoying themselves tasting the dishes prepared by the various communities.
 
Live music and DJ music provided the much needed opportunity for enjoyment for the old and the young.  The battle of the DJ’s, Dance performances and songs hightened the spirit of festival atmosphere.
 
The festival had the true spirit  of fellowship and love between all the people of the parish.  The efforts by all the communities has to be appreciated under the leadership of Dolphi Vaz being festival co-ordinator.
 
Dolphy Vaz – Co-ordinator of the Christmas Festival thanked people who had supported the event.  He specially thanked  Conrad – the vice president and Joyce Rego – the Secretary  of parish council for their unstinted support and working silently during the past months
 
Fr. Savarimuttu – the parish priest thanked the whole parish for the enthusiasm and support provided for the event.  He made a special mention of Walter D’Almeida and his family for donating the Car as a final prize for the Entry Coupon draw and was felicitated by the Bishop.  His Excellency Bishop invoked Gods blessings on the parishioners of Abu Dhabi.
 
The exciting event came to a close around 10:00 p.m.

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