Bhubaneswar: Decked up churches, lighted altars, Xmas trees decorated with gifts, devotees flocking to observe midnight mass, and festive cheer ushered in Christmas in different parts of Odisha.
As midnight carols and holy masses in decorated churches welcomed Jesus into the earth on Christmas night, people erupted in festive mood and gathered in thousands at churches and decked up cathedrals to celebrate the birth of their Lord.
Churches in state capital Bhubaneswar witnessed visits by devotees who added glitter to the Christmas celebrations by singing carols, distributing sweets, cakes and rejoicing in the name of the Lord with a spirit of enthusiasm and camaraderie.
While soothing carols and music along with a dazzling Xmas tree rang in the festival on Christmas Eve at St Vincent’s Catholic church, an atmosphere of peace and serenity pervaded Union Church as devotees observed the holy rituals to mark the birth of Lord Jesus Christ.
For some, Christmas is about good food, music, parties and spending time with loved ones, while others go with the merry atmosphere that marks the festival.
In Bhubaneswar, about 2 lakh people are expected to visit the churches in the city to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ, sing carols and enjoy the festivities.
For many, Christmas is a way to unite people of every religion. The occasion means a fun filled outing, meeting people and spreading love and peace in the society, said a church-goer.
Elaborate arrangements have been made by the administration in different districts to ensure smooth Christmas celebrations. In Kandhamal, security has also been tightened with police conducting flag march in Baliguda and Barakhama areas.
