Mosin Ahmed
Baramulla, Dec 25: Amid cold and foggy weather, Catholic Christians of Baramulla town on Monday celebrated Christmas, the birthday of Jesus Christ, with religious fervour.
The special prayers were held at St. Joseph’s Church in Baramulla, the oldest Catholic Church in the union-territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The church was decorated with lights, candles, and Christmas tree bells.
The Mass Prayer and special services commenced around 10:00 AM to mark the birthday of Jesus Christ.
During the Mass Prayer, Catholic Christians read the Holy Bible, sang festival songs, and offered prayers. Sermons were also delivered before the devotees.
Many Muslims were also present during the mass prayers.
Father Soosairajan, leading the prayer, expressed the festival’s significance as a symbol of happiness, peace, and harmony. He extended his wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, emphasizing prayers for global well-being.
The celebrations, attended by approximately 100-150 people from seven to eight Catholic Christian families, concluded around noon with the distribution of sacred food among devotees.
SSP Baramulla, Amod Ashok Nagpuri’s representative, SHO Baramulla Vilayat Hussain Sofi, and his squad were present during the celebration.
Post the Christmas Mass, a festive celebration unfolded on the church’s lawn. SHO Baramulla Vilayat Hussain Sofi and Father Soosairajan, accompanied by children, participated in a cake-cutting ceremony. Tea, pastry, and cake were distributed among the attendees.
A decorated photo booth on the church’s entrance side allowed devotees to capture cherished memories. The Christmas spirit extended to children dressed in new clothes, with individuals from Sikh and Muslim communities joining the festivities.
A person donned in a Santa Claus costume distributed sweets to children, emphasizing the inclusive nature of the celebration.
Reflecting on the event, Ashish John shared, “We celebrated Christmas with all enthusiasm and energy.
“We are a small community here, but the spirit is immense.” The celebration encapsulated the essence of unity and joy, transcending religious boundaries and embracing the diversity of Baramulla’s community,” he added
