Christmas Eve: Festivities at Derebail Parish to Welcome Jesus

‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will go come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’” (Matthew 2:4–6).

The Christmas celebration at Most Holy Redeemer Church, Derebail began at 6:30 PM, with the Carol singing by Children's Choir, YCS and Youth Choir, a team of men from the Parish, and the Parish Choir. The Parish priest Rev. Fr. Joseph Martis sang a Latin Carol "Venite Adoremus". The solemn mass of Christmas eve began at 7 PM by Rev Fr Boniface Pinto,Spiritual Director, Propaedeutic Seminary-Karnataka Region along with Fr Joseph Martis and Assistant Parish Priest Rev Fr Kevin D'Souza. The church crib was blessed during the Gloria Hymn.

In his Homily, Fr Boniface emphasized the need to create a Bethlehem in one's own hearts by doing small deeds like helping others, kindness towards the needy and being merciful. He also narrated a few incidents when people demonstrated their ability to create a Bethlehem through their good actions. Such hearts welcome the Saviour born in Bethlehem.

Towards the end of the celebrations, candles were distributed to all the contributors and sponsors. After the mass, The youth CLC held a Live Crib, Auction and Housie Housie, which kept the parishioners engaged. Thus, Christmas at Derebail Parish began on a solemn and lively note.

Report by: Reon Sylvester Dcunha
Pictures: Simon Pereira