The city of Patna was bathed in festive spirit on Wednesday evening as the Christian community and well-wishers came together to celebrate Christmas Eve. Hundreds of people thronged to churches across the capital, which were adorned with brilliant lights and decorations, for the traditional Midnight Mass and joyful gatherings.
Churches Resonate with Carols and Prayers
The air in Patna was filled with the sound of classic Christmas hymns. Churches echoed with melodies like ‘Hallelujah’, ‘Silent Night’, and ‘Hark! The Herald Angels Sing’, creating an atmosphere of devotion and celebration. The music drew worshippers into a deep festive mood, with families, friends, and community members uniting in a vibrant display of joy and togetherness.
Most Rev Sebastian Kallapura, the Archbishop of Patna, emphasized in his Christmas message that the birth of Lord Jesus brought joy, peace, and healing to a fractured world. He led the prayer service at St Joseph’s Pro Cathedral in Bankipore, where approximately 400 devotees assembled for mass.
Widespread Celebrations Across the City
Similar services of worship and reflection were held at numerous churches throughout Patna. At the Sacred Hearts Church in Patliputra, the service was conducted by Fr Martin Anand. Other notable services included mass prayers led by Bartho Lomi at St Mary’s Church, Chakram; Fr Joachim Ekka OFM Cap at Padri ki Haveli in Patna City; and Fr Dominique Peter at St John’s The Apostle Church in Kankerbagh.
One of the major gatherings was at the Queen of Apostles Church in Kurji, where over 5,000 devotees congregated. Fr Selvin Xavier SJ, the Parish Priest, explained that the community had been preparing spiritually for a month through prayer, fasting, and charitable acts. "The entire community is excited and united in praying to Lord Jesus for peace and harmony in families, the state, the country, and the world," he stated.
Elaborate Preparations and Messages of Hope
Fr Selvin also detailed the extensive decorations, including beautiful illuminations and the construction of artificial mangers (nativity scenes) both inside and outside the church. This effort was guided by Bro Pappu Raja, Vishwakarma, Bablu Masih from SVP Colony, along with members of the youth group and others.
At Kurji, the Vigil Mass was presided over by Fr Ravibhushan. In a thoughtful homily, he highlighted the enduring significance of Christmas. "Celebrating Christmas in a wounded world reminds us that a light still shines in the darkness, and hope still lingers amidst the chaos and confusion in the world," he remarked, offering a message of resilience and faith to all present.
The evening in Patna ultimately stood as a powerful testament to community spirit, shared faith, and the universal hope for peace that the Christmas season represents.
