Christmas is celebrated worldwide, reflecting Jesus' motto, "Be as doves without guile." Christians come together to share love and exchange sweet, new language.
At midnight, special joint prayers were held in churches. In Tamil Nadu, baby Jesus idols were unveiled in huts, worship was practiced, and mass was celebrated in churches spread throughout Velanganni, Thoothukudi, Chennai-Santhom, Trichy, Madurai, Nellai, Coimbatore, Kodaikanal, and Salem. Christmas is celebrated in a unique way by many people because it marks the start of festivities like Pongal and New Year.
The Vatican Church, the global headquarters of Catholic Christians, hosted the Christmas prayer. Pope Francis led a prayer in which thousands of people took part.
During these times of war, people prayed to the Son of God for a good life and world peace.
In just one year, there have been wars in Israel and Gaza, Ukraine and Russia, a global economic downturn, another Corona infection, attacks on minorities, oppressed women, and conflicts based on caste, religion, and ethnicity. There are reports that the war has forced the city of Bethlehem, where Jesus was born, to postpone its Christmas celebration. The news is depressing.
Today's Christmas prayer is about healing from such things and letting love and peace permeate the world.
There is no denying the effectiveness of intense prayer. Thoughts give rise to actions. Praying has advantages.
Merry Christmas to all !