Conflict-torn Manipur prays for peace, normalcy

Imphal: The church bodies’ collective call to keep Christmas a low-key affair amid the ethnic conflict gripping Manipur has hushed the spirit of festivity even as many devout Christians and civil bodies prayed for restoration of peace and normalcy in the restive state.As the cries of the bereaved families and those whose houses and properties were destroyed in the strife echoed across the state, many Christians said this Christmas would be about caring and giving for the victims. Unlike the gala Christmas events in the past, this time a mild yuletide air envelopes the hill district and some Christian pockets in Imphal valley.Pastor of Tangkhul Baptist Church in Imphal, Rev Khayaipam Khamrang said this Christmas will be different from the earlier celebrations. “While there will be community celebrations during our service today evening and tomorrow morning, we’ve encouraged and requested our members not to indulge in lavish spending and grand feasting. We have asked them to instead use their resources to help those in need,” Khamrang said.The unceasing violence has also hit the Xmas gift shop dealers in Imphal as one of them said “we used to do a brisk sale during Christmas but this time we could sell hardly 25% of what we sold last year.”Extending her Christmas greetings, governor Anusuiya Uikey said, “Christmas is the most important festival in the life of a Christian anywhere in the world. Jesus Christ was the apostle of peace and preached forgiveness, compassion and love.”Echoing Uikey, CM N Biren Singh, while stating that Manipur has been going through possibly one of the worst phases in its history, said “we must rise in unison and take back our ailing state to its former self of peace and giving and sharing.”

Christmas Excursions: 10 Churches in India for Students to Visit and Learn About Christian Traditions

Christmas holidays are approaching, offering students a fun and educational opportunity to visit churches. The Basilica of Bom Jesus in Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, allows students to learn about Jesuit history and witness Christmas festivities influenced by Portuguese traditions. St. Thomas Cathedral in Mumbai provides insight into the city's colonial past and the fusion of local and European Christmas customs. St. Paul's Cathedral in Kolkata hosts elaborate Christmas celebrations, showcasing Victorian architecture. Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church in Goa offers picturesque architecture and the influence of Goan and Portuguese traditions. St. Francis Church in Kochi provides a glimpse into Kerala's Christian history and colonial architecture. St. Mary's Basilica in Bengaluru hosts grand Christmas celebrations in a magnificent Gothic-style church. All Saints' Cathedral in Allahabad showcases stunning architecture and British colonial influences on Indian Christianity. The Church of St. John in the Wilderness in Dharamshala offers Neo-Gothic architecture amidst the Himalayas. Santa Cruz Basilica in Kochi represents Indo-European architecture and the fusion of local and Western customs. Christ Church in Shimla allows students to experience Christmas celebrations in the backdrop of the Himalayas and learn about British influences on the region's architecture and traditions.

Soaking in Yuletide spirit at Christmas Milan

UP Masihi Association organized a Christmas Milan at Christ Church College in Lucknow. People dressed in red, green, and white celebrated the yuletide spirit by singing carols, dancing, and meeting friends. UPMA Secretary RK Chattree felicitated Reverend Pappy P Mathai, Reverend Samuel Benjamin, Reverend Iqbal Masih, Father Alphonsus Lobo, and Reverend Edward Samson. The participants enjoyed cake and coffee at the event.

Merry Christmas 2023: 20 religious Christmas quotes about Jesus

Christmas, a widely celebrated festival commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, is marked by various traditions and celebrations. The story unfolds in Bethlehem, where a young virgin named Mary gave birth to Jesus in a humble manger. The custom of giving gifts is based on the biblical story of the Magi who presented gifts to the newborn Jesus. In Western countries, the holiday season starts in late November and extends through December. Families and friends gather to decorate Christmas trees, exchange gifts, and feast.