Meghalaya Rings in Christmas with Devotion, Carol Singing, and Messages of Peace

Christmas festivities kicked off across Meghalaya with heartfelt evening prayers and midnight Masses in churches, drawing thousands of devotees in a spirit of unity and reflection.

The highlight of the celebrations was at the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians in Laitumkhrah, where a diverse crowd gathered for solemn services.

After the Mass, worshippers exchanged warm greetings, embodying the joy and goodwill of the season. Churches throughout Shillong andthe  surrounding areas, adorned with festive lights and decorations, attracted both faithful and visitors on Christmas Eve, with special services continuing on Thursday.

In their sermons, priests emphasised Jesus Christ as the bearer of peace, while congregants prayed for harmony, unity, and prosperity for the nation and the world.

Archbishop Victor Lyngdoh of the Shillong Diocese delivered a poignant Christmas message, extending greetings and urging the faithful to renew their commitment to faith, hope, and love.

He called for repentance from sin and detachment from worldly evils to experience true joy and peace. Highlighting the universal significance of Christ's birth as a symbol of love, hope, and salvation, the Archbishop stressed that Jesus brings peace to troubled times and joy to families and hearts. He encouraged everyone to become instruments of love, peace, and hope, concluding with prayers for abundant blessings.

Religious and political leaders joined in spreading festive cheer. Former Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh wished love, brotherhood, and community spirit to households across the state, praying for blessings from the infant Jesus and greater unity in Meghalaya.

Social Welfare Department Adviser Paul Lyngdoh urged celebrations rooted in humility, reflecting on the struggles of Mary and Joseph to grasp the deeper meaning of Christmas through compassion.

Nongrim Hills Rangbah Shnong Bantylli L. Narry extended greetings, acknowledging efforts toward peace and development, while Lympung Seng Kynthei President Theilin Phanbuh emphasised that embracing Christ's teachings fosters respect, kindness, and societal harmony.

The festive mood was amplified by vibrant carol programmes. The Seng Samla Catholic Malki organised a lively procession on Tuesday evening, starting from Holy Spirit Church, Malki, and winding through key locations before ending at Don Bosco Technical School. Participants, including children and youth, sang hymns to spread messages of joy and peace.

Similarly, Laban Presbyterian Church held carols on Christmas Eve, enhancing the atmosphere of love and togetherness.

Amid the celebrations, Khasi Jaintia Christian Leaders Forum secretary Rev. Edwin H. Kharkongor expressed concern over rising prejudice and restrictions on Christian expressions in India, citing persecution and limits on religious freedoms despite technological progress. He highlighted the need for greater tolerance in a secular nation.

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