BELLARY, DEC 25: Over 2,500 Christians participated in the ecumenical Christmas celebration held today at the popular Bellary Arogya Mathe Shrine.
Christians belonging to various streams of Christians , viz. Catholics, Church of South India and Independent Churches participated in the joyful celebration attended by a an enthusiastic audience.
In his Christmas message, Bishop Henry D’Souza of Bellary said, “Christmas is a time we celebrate God' presence in our midst. The Babe of Bethlehem embodies God's love for humanity; not for some of the time, not when it's convenient, but all the time - in every waking and in every breathing.”
“May Christmas fill all hearts and every family with Divine Love and take away the dark clouds of crime and corruption; ushering in peace and prosperity to one and all! Happy Christmas and Bright New year”, Bishop added.
Bishop D’Souza urged to bring love in to every family and in to all human relationships and to shun all forms of divisions, hatred, violence and crime.
Earlier, Swami Siddharth spoke on the need of greater communal harmony and peace.
Sri Ahmed M. lauded the life and teachings of Jesus and urged all religious followers to appreciate and respect each other.
Different churches presented carols and the Bellary Diocesan communications centre Bhagawatvani presented a short Christmas ballet.
Bishop D’Souza also released the Diocesan Directory compiled by the diocesan communications director Fr. Thomas Santhosh.
Vicar General and Rector of the shrine Fr. Chowrappa thanked the gathering.
The Shrine of Bellary Arogya Mathe was blessed and dedicated on 8th September 2000 on the feast of the Nativity of our Blessed Mother Mary in memory of the great jubilee 2000 and the Golden Jubilee of the Diocese of Bellary