The 28th Christmas celebrations of the Syro Malabar Catholic Church in Chennai was held on December 18th at the Santhome Higher Secondary School Auditorium. Holy Mass where His Beatitude Mar George Alencherry, Major Archbishop was the main celebrant, marked the beginning of the celebration. Bishops, Mar Pauly Kannukadan and Mar James Pazyatil were the concelebrants.

After the Holy Mass the Major Arch Bishop who is visiting Chennai for the first time was accorded a warm welcome by St. Thomas Pastoral Council. The Major Arch Bishop formally inaugurated the Christmas celebrations by lighting the lamp. In his message Mar George Alencherry stressed on the need to celebrate Christmas without alcohol. He also requested the congregation to pray and eagerly await the formation of a diocese in Chennai.

Bishop Mar Pauly Kannookadan presided over the function and delivered the Christmas message. The Bishop of Chennai Rev Dr Chinnappa, Aux Bishop Rev Lawerance Pious and Bishop of Chengalpet Rev Needhinadan also gave the Christmas message

Mar Yohannan Dioscoros, Bishop of the Malankara Orthodox Church in Chennai also wished the congregation on this occasion.

Mar James Pazhayattil officially launched the ‘Bless a Home’ scheme for providing shelter to the homeless.

Mr Jacob Chakkathara, Secretary , Pastoral Council presented the Annual Report

Dr Antony Kollanur , Fr Jose Palatty, Br. Antony Swamy , Sr Lilly SH, and Adv. Francis Kurien also spoke on the occasion.

This was followed by cultural programme.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

By Gracy Varghese – (Little Mount Parish)