Cool breeze, beautiful lightings, twinkling stars all around, melodious carols, the crib and brightly dressed devotees add colour to the festive atmosphere of Christmas. The mood at Guardian Angel church was no different on the Christmas Eve.
The previous evening, the parishioners had volunteered to set the venue for Christmas. As they set the chairs in blocks, those entrusted the liturgical responsibilities perfected their part. The altar was beautifully draped by the Sisters of Charity. The backdrop of the altar was tastefully laid by Sambhram Arrangers.
The Christmas celebrations commenced with carol singing at 7.00 pm on the eve of Christmas. The melody of the carols took everyone to an altogether new world of fantasy and gave a heavenly feeling. The Eucharistic celebration began 7.30 pm. It was concelebrated by Rev. Fr Naveen Pinto, Administrator of St. Joseph’s Seminary, Jeppu. In his homily, Fr Pinto gave the message of peace and called upon everyone to live a life of peace. Rev. Fr William Menezes, Parish Priest, while extending the greetings of Christmas to the faithful on behalf of Rev. Fr Lawrence Cutinha, Assistant Parish Priest, and guest priests, thanked everyone who selflessly toiled to make the celebration successful.
Fun and frolic
As the Eucharistic celebration came to end, fun and festivities started. The members of Stree Sanghatan distributed cakes sponsored by Karnataka Bank. As the parishioners exchanged greetings of Christmas, the members of Young Catholic Students presented a beautifully choreographed Christmas dance. Housie-housie game and auction of Christmas Hamper were organised to raise funds for the activities of YCS. The parishioners enthusiastically participated in both the events. The YCS animators and members gratefully acknowledge the patronage of the parishioners. Their goodwill gesture will go a long way in laying a strong foundation to the youth of the parish. As part of Christmas, a Christmas Greeting Card and Christmas Star competition was held for the parishioners. The prizes for the same were given to the winners.
Winners
Christmas star
I Prize – Jaison Fernandes, Lourdes Ward I
II Prize – Grashal Fernandes, Holy Cross Ward I
Christmas Greeting Card
I Prize – Ashney Lasrado, Church Ward
II Prize – Maxwell Lobo, Holy Cross Ward I
The Crib
The crib symbolises the simplicity of Jesus Christ. It is also the main attraction of Christmas. The members of Angelore Youth Movement had put in their time, energy and creativity in giving a beautiful shape to the crib. The beautiful crib with breathtaking landscape is fruit of their month-long hardship. The whole Parish salutes them for their selfless service.
As the festivities came to an end, the parishioners proceeded home taking the message Jesus in their hearts.
