Visakhapatnam: Christmas was celebrated with enthusiasm and gaiety on Monday in the city and other parts of North Andhra region comprising Vizianaga-ram, Srikakulam and Visakhapatnam districts. In Vizag, thousands of Christians thronged churches for the Midnight Mass on Sunday braving the chilling winter and this morning to pray for joy and peace. All small, medium and big churches in the city were beautifully decked out with electric lamps and glowing stars for Christmas. The presence of a Christmas tree, along with Santa Claus, added sparkle to the venues. The cribs depicting the birth of Jesus Christ were the centre of attraction.
The largest congregation of worshippers for Midnight Mass were seen at Churches Quirk Memorial Baptist Church, St Anthony Church, Union Chapel Church and a few others located at Jagadamba, Siripuram, I Town areas in the city. Scenes of bonhomie were witnessed soon after the prayers with people hugging each other and greeting “Merry Christmas”.
From morning, a large number of people participated in mass prayers at famous churches like St Paul's where the church committee distributed sweets to children and others. “Jesus was born in a modest family and he devoted his entire life for the welfare of humanity and peace. All the people should follow the message of Jesus for the peace, love and joy,” said heads of various churches in the city.
Wishing a joyous Christmas and a prosperous new year to Vizagites, political leaders in the city said Christmas is an occasion to renew the bond of love and celebrations reassure the followers of Jesus Christ of joy, peace and prosperity.
