All the churches were illuminated and decorated for the occasion

Amid a biting cold wave in the Kashmir, the Christian community of the valley on Wednesday celebrated the Christmas; the birthday of Jesus Christ, with zest and gaiety in Srinagar.

All the churches were illuminated and decorated for the occasion. The Christians attired in colourful dresses exchanged greetings with each other, distributed sweets and offered special prayers.

The mass prayers celebrations at Srinagar’s Holy Family Catholic Church, a Roman Catholic Church located at Maulana Azad Road, began in the morning and ended up around 3:00 pm.

Kashmir has one of the oldest Churches located in Gulmarg started by the British services personnel in pre-1947 era. It was renovated by the government a few years back. Normally the Western skiers stationed in the picnic spot go for Christmas celebrations there.

The church was decorated with colourful buntings and balloons, the devotees attending the celebrations prayed for the communal harmony, love for humanity and compassion for all living inside the valley.

“We are waiting for this day for full year. It is a day of happiness” a devotee said.

“We decorated our houses. Prepared tasty dishes and invite our relatives to our home,” said David.

“Jesus will fulfil our wishes and will fill our life with happiness”. Said Suzey with a smile.

In anticipation of the Christian festival, Lt governor had extended greetings to the religious minority. Unlike Kashmir, Jammu has more numbers and the festival is colourful and comparatively widespread.

Advisor to Lieutenant Governor, Farooq Khan reiterated that the teachings of Jesus Christ are more relevant in present turbulent world.

(Courtesy: Kashmir Life)