As the festive season reaches its peak, churches across Kolkata are witnessing a remarkable surge in activity. Congregations are deeply engaged in preparations for one of the most significant celebrations on the city's calendar, blending deep-rooted faith with joyous festivity and heartfelt philanthropy.
Historic Churches Adorned for the Festivities
Preparations are in full swing at several of Kolkata's historic and prominent churches. Over the past few days, these sacred spaces have already drawn large numbers of worshippers and visitors for pre-Christmas events. At St Andrew's Church on Brabourne Road and the Old Mission Church on RN Mukherjee Road, the community has come together for evening prayer services, spirited carol singing, and parish dinners. Church choirs are diligently rehearsing for the upcoming Christmas Eve services.
Volunteers are actively decorating church interiors with traditional symbols of the season, including poinsettias, stars, and elaborate cribs depicting the Nativity scene. The Old Mission Church's chapel has been beautifully adorned, and it will host a special prayer service at 9 am on Christmas Day. "On Sunday, we had a well-attended candlelight service followed by a parish dinner," shared a church member.
Similarly, the façade of St John's Church on Council House Street is already illuminated with festive lights. Church officer Rangan Dutta confirmed that their special prayer service will commence at 8.30 am on December 25. Other churches like Duff Church, St John's Church, and Sacred Heart Church on Lenin Sarani are also finalizing arrangements for their unique Christmas services.
Logistical Preparations and Charitable Outreach
With massive crowds anticipated for Midnight Mass and Christmas Day morning services, church authorities are meticulously planning logistical details. This includes arranging additional seating, deploying more volunteers, and coordinating with government agencies to ensure smooth crowd management, especially at centrally located landmarks like St Paul's Cathedral.
At St Mary's Church on Elgin Road, Reverend Father Biswajit Biswas stated, "The preparations for Christmas are almost complete. Devotees come in large numbers for the special prayers on Christmas, so we have made adequate arrangements." Churches such as Duff Church in Maniktala, St Mary's on Elgin Road, and Christ The King on Syed Amir Ali Avenue have all made extra seating provisions for the expected influx of devotees.
Beyond the religious ceremonies, the spirit of giving is shining brightly. Several parishes have organized charitable programs as a core part of their Christmas message. These initiatives involve the distribution of blankets, food packets, and gifts to children from economically weaker sections of society. This blend of worship and welfare underscores the holistic celebration of the season.
Festive Spirit Extends Beyond Church Walls
The Christmas cheer in Kolkata is not confined to church premises. The city's neighbourhoods are also resonating with hymns, lights, and acts of generosity. Bow Barracks, the iconic Anglo-Indian enclave in central Kolkata, has transformed into a major festive attraction. Its narrow lanes are spectacularly decked with fairy lights, stars, and Christmas trees, drawing hundreds of visitors over the weekend, well before Christmas Day. Residents note that footfall this year is exceptionally high, with people arriving from all corners of the city to soak in the unique atmosphere.
The Cathedral of the Most Holy Rosary on Brabourne Road has seen steady footfall for its pre-Christmas programs. Community-focused events are also popular, like the gathering for children and senior citizens held at St Thomas Church on Middleton Row on Monday evening, which combined prayer with the distribution of Christmas goodies. "It is an annual feature of the church where we celebrate with seniors and children," explained a parishioner.
As Kolkata moves closer to December 25th, the harmonious blend of sacred traditions, vibrant decorations, and community service is creating a truly memorable and warm Christmas atmosphere for all.
