Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje / Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Dec 24: Thousands of faithful flocked to churches across the city on Thursday December 24, as Christmas Eve Mass was celebrated with vigour and devotion.
The churches brimmed with devotees who celebrated the birth of Jesus Christ the Saviour with much joy.
St Lawrence Church, Bondel
Rosario Cathedral
All the major churches in the city wore a bridal look with sparkling decorations, vibrant Christmas trees and colourful lights.
Carol singing and attractive cribs added to the festive atmosphere.
The Mass at Rosario Cathedral was celebrated by bishop of Mangaluru diocese Dr Aloysius Paul D'Souza with Monsignor Denis Moras Prabhu, Fr J B Crasta, Fr Vincent D'Souza, Fr Rocky Fernandes and Fr Paul Sebastian D'Souza as concelebrants.
In his homily, the bishop said, "Jesus is son of God. He came to earth and lived as an ordinary person among us. He was a master, yet he became a servant. He was himself God but he chose to become a man. He was from David's dynasty. He could have easily lived in a palace, but he chose to live as a carpenter. He had a humble beginning which started from Bethlehem. He was born in a poor family to Joseph and Mary.
"We celebrate Christmas every year, but do we try to be humble like him? We spend a lot on special things during Christmas. Why should we do it without following the simple message of Christmas, that is to live a simple and pious life?
"Three wise men came from a distant land to see Infant Jesus. They were all wealthy, yet they visited the saviour because they knew that money and intelligence were of no use. They surrendered their pride and came to see Jesus. We should also become like them and surrender ourselves to God, only then will the celebration of Christmas be meaningful. Let us remember that Jesus sacrificed his life for us. He performed miracles for us and he died on the Cross for our salvation. Let us become what he wanted us to be. Let us walk on his path," the bishop said.
Daijiworld wishes all its readers a merry and blessed Christmas!
USA
Udupi Diocese
Mangaluru Diocese