Christmas celebrations: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday attended the Christmas celebrations hosted by the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) at the CBCI Centre premises in New Delhi.
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The Prime Minister also interacted with key leaders from the Christian community, including Cardinals, Bishops and prominent lay leaders of the Church, his office said in a release on December 22. This is the first time a Prime Minister will attend such a programme at the Headquarters of the Catholic Church in India, the statement added.
'It pains my heart': PM Modi
The Prime Minister said it pains his heart when there are attempts to spread violence and cause disruption in society. “It is important that we all work to make this spirit stronger. However, it pains my heart when there are attempts to spread violence and cause disruption in society. Just a few days ago, we saw what happened at the Christmas market in Germany. It is essential that we come together to fight such challenges,” he said.
Teachings of Lord Christ celebrate love, harmony: PM Modi
Speaking at the Christmas celebrations, PM Modi said that the teachings of Lord Christ celebrate love, harmony and brotherhood and it is important for all to work to make this spirit stronger.
Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) was established in 1944 and is the body which works closest with all the Catholics across India.
He further said that India gives priority to national interest as well as human interest in its foreign policy and noted that the country cares for its people abroad and brings them back to the country if they face any difficulty.
“It was a very satisfactory moment for me when we safely brought Father Alexis Prem Kumar from war-torn Afghanistan, a decade back. He was stuck there for eight months and was in hostage... For us, all these missions are not mere diplomatic missions but an emotional commitment to bring back family members,” he said.
He said no matter where they are or what crisis they face, today's India sees it as its duty to bring its citizens to safety.
Recalling his meeting with Pope Francis earlier this year during the G7 summit in Italy, PM Modi said he had invited him to visit India.
In a series of posts which included photographs on X, Modi said, "Delighted to join a Christmas programme hosted by the Catholic Bishops Conference of India. Attended the Christmas celebrations hosted by the Catholic Bishops Conference of India. Here are some glimpses…"
"The CBCI Christmas celebrations brought together Christians from all walks of life. There were also soulful renditions of spiritual hymns and songs," he said.
The PM said he interacted with the Cardinals during the CBCI Christmas programme. "India is proud of their service to society. Interacted with Archbishops, Bishops and CBCI members. Also wished His Eminence, Oswald Cardinal Gracias for his 80th birthday," he said.
About Christmas
Jesus is regarded by Christians as the Son of God, whose teachings and sacrifices have influenced the spiritual development of humanity. For Christians, Christmas has great religious and cultural significance. It honours the birth of Jesus Christ, who is thought to have come to earth to save humanity. His teachings placed a strong focus on sacrifice, love, and compassion. Christians hold that the birth of Jesus changed the world, bringing happiness and hope in place of greed and evil.
Christmas is also a time to commemorate the sacrifices made by Jesus, especially his crucifixion and resurrection. Carol singing, religious services, and prayers are used to commemorate these occasions.
(With agencies input)
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