Report by: Meena Serrao Barboza
Mangaluru, Dec 19: On December 18, members of various religious congregations joyfully gathered at the Betharram Formation Centre, Mary Hill, to celebrate Christmas in a spirit of faith, fellowship, and hope.
The programme began with a warm welcome, followed by a prayerful reflection on the Word of God led by Sr Bhaiya, inviting all present to prepare their hearts to receive the Infant Jesus.
This was followed by the lighting of the Christmas lamp, symbolising Christ as the Light of the World. The lamp was lit by Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, parish priest of St Lawrence Church & Shrine; Fr Gregory, SVD; Fr Peter Gonsalves; Sr Leela; postulant sister; and Fr Biju Alappatt (Betharram).
In his Christmas message, Fr Gregory, SVD, beautifully reminded the gathering that Christmas is a call to become witnesses of God’s love, humility, and compassion. He encouraged everyone to carry the joy of Christ’s birth into their daily religious life through selfless service, unity, and a deep concern for the poor and the marginalized.
The parish priest Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza highlighted the true meaning of Christmas as an encounter with the living God who comes to dwell among his people. He invited all religious to rediscover the simplicity of the manger and to radiate Christ’s peace, hope, and love in their ministries and communities.
The cultural programme commenced with a vibrant and meaningful dance by the Balagraha children, setting a joyful tone for the celebration. This was followed by inspiring performances by the Postulants, Betharram Brothers, AC Novices, and others. The atmosphere was further enriched by melodious Christmas songs rendered by the AC Novices and Balagraha Sisters, Betharram Brothers, Nazareth Niwas Sisters, Postulants, and UMI Sisters, while soulful carols by the Prathanalaya Sisters filled the hearts of all with joy, devotion, and praise.
As a heartfelt gesture of love and sharing, Christmas gifts were distributed to the Balagraha children. Games conducted by Br Stevan for the senior sisters brought moments of joy and togetherness, and the winners were felicitated with gifts, adding cheer and laughter to the celebration. Marian hymns were sung in deep devotion, and the true joy of Christmas was further expressed through the exchange of Kuswar among Christmas friends. In the same spirit of fraternity and communion, Christmas gifts were also shared among the religious, strengthening bonds of unity and fellowship..
The programme was gracefully compered by Br Joyal, and the celebration concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Fr Biju Alappatt.
Indeed, it was a deeply meaningful and joy-filled Christmas celebration, fostering unity, hope, and renewed commitment to live the message of Christ in faith and service.