Christmas celebrated with fervour in Meghalaya

Shillong, Dec 25 (UNI) Christmas was celebrated with religious fervour and enthusiasm across Meghalaya.

Midnight Mass was held at several big and small churches across the state, including the Mary Help of Christian Cathedral and Church of North India.

Today, morning Mass was also conducted in all the churches to mark the occasion.

Shillong Archdiocese Archbishop Dominic Jala led the congregation in a Christmas midnight Mass at the Mary Help of Christian cathedral here.

Rev Jala appealed to the people to uphold the ideals of universal love and brotherhood.

All the churches in the city were elegantly decorated. After offering prayers, bells rang at midnight. The Christian leaders cut cakes and conveyed greetings. People from different religious background also took part in the celebrations and exchanged greetings.

Youngsters clad in their new attire went around the city singing carols. While children celebrated Christmas with much enthusiasm.

Chief Minister J D Rymbai attended Christmas service at Presbyterian Church. Former Lok Sabha Speaker and NCP Purno A Sangma also attended the mass at St Mary's Church in Tura, of the West Garo Hills district.

Extending his Christmas greetings, Chief Minister J D Rymbai said Christmas promotes goodwill, compassion and love and hoped that it brought joy and prosperity to all.

Other political leaders also celebrated Christmas exchanging good wishes.

The Central Puja Committee, an apex organization of all Hindu religious groups in the state, celebrated Christmas with 70 inmates of Shanti Bhawan Old Age Home run by the congregation of Mother Teresa.

UNI RRK BA/src1306