The historic city of Mysuru and the picturesque district of Kodagu came alive with the spirit of Christmas as the Christian community gathered in large numbers to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ with deep devotion and festive joy.
Midnight Mass and Bishop's Message of Harmony at St. Philomena's
From Wednesday night, churches across Mysuru resonated with hymns and prayers. The iconic St. Philomena's Church served as the focal point for the celebrations. The solemn midnight mass was conducted in the presence of Rev Francis Serrao, the Bishop of Mysore. Special religious programmes began at 11 pm and continued through the night with liturgical services and traditional carols.
Addressing the congregation, Bishop Serrao delivered a powerful message urging humanity to embrace peace and coexistence. He cautioned against the misuse of religion to spread division, emphasising that the fellowship symbolised by Christ's birth is vital in today's world. He prayed for the peace and joy of Christmas to fill hearts throughout the New Year.
Festive Arrangements and Widespread Celebrations
On Christmas Day, special prayer services were held every hour from 5 am until 9 pm at St. Philomena's. Anticipating the heavy turnout, the church administration installed LED screens on the premises so all devotees could participate. The faithful lit candles and offered prayers before statues of Jesus Christ, St. Joseph, and Mother Mary.
A major attraction was the meticulously designed nativity scene outside the church. The Bishop ceremoniously placed the idol of Baby Jesus in the manger on Wednesday night, assisted by priests. The crib, depicting Bethlehem, along with a Santa Claus display, drew large, admiring crowds.
Celebrations spread across the city at numerous churches including:
- Wesley Church near KSRTC bus stand
- Hardwicke Church in Chamarajapuram
- Jesu Kripalaya in Ramakrishna Nagar
- Infant Jesus Shrine in Naidu Nagar
- Bala Kristalaya on Hunsur Road
Kodagu Joins in the Festive Fervour
Meanwhile, the Christmas festival was celebrated with equal religious fervour across Kodagu district. In Madikeri, a replica of Baby Jesus was installed and worshipped at St. Michael's Church. Pastor George Deepak performed puja and preached the message of Jesus, with dignitaries like Sanjay, a representative of the church organisation, in attendance.
In Virajpet taluk, district leaders Joaquin Rodrigues and Mervin Lobo celebrated with children at St. Mary Orphanage in Kedamullur village, sharing food and the Christmas spirit. The community in Somwarpet also celebrated with great enthusiasm at the Jayaveeramatha Temple, holding a mass prayer guided by Fr. Ajith Rodrigues and Fr. Avinash.
Homes and shops across the region were adorned with Christmas stars, adding a special touch to the festive atmosphere and marking a season of hope, love, and communal harmony.
