The Commission for Ecumenism, under the leadership of its Secretary Rev. Fr. Edwin Paul D’Souza, organized the Sauhardh Christmas Celebration on 15th December 2025 at Holy Rosary Hall, Ankola. The program was presided over by Most Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar. The Guests of Honor included Pastor A. C. Kurian (Ankola), Rev. Fr. Lancy Rodrigues, Rev. Prince James, and Rev. Ravi Besta, along with the People of God, reflecting the spirit of unity and harmony.
As part of the prayer service, Pastor A. C. Kurian proclaimed the Gospel reading, highlighting the ecumenical spirit of the celebration. The celebration was coordinated by Rev. Fr. Edwin Paul, Secretary of Ecumenism, with the support of Rev. Fr. Stewart Fernandes and the ecumenical team members. The program was enriched by melodious Christmas carols rendered by the youth of Our Lady of Piety Church, the Mar Thoma Church, and the Holy Rosary Church choir, which added joy and devotion to the gathering.
In his address, Rev. Ravi Besta highlighted the true importance of Christmas, drawing attention to its biblical foundation. Referring to the birth of Jesus Christ as narrated in the Gospels, he reminded the faithful that Christmas celebrates the fulfillment of God’s promise of salvation. He encouraged everyone to become a light in the lives of others, reflecting Christ, who is the Light of the world, and emphasized that Christmas brings lasting joy, hope, and peace into human life.
Addressing the gathering, Bishop Duming Dias emphasized the call to be a peaceful people, even amid challenges and opposition. He urged the faithful to courageously bear witness to Christ. Reflecting on the meaning of Christmas, he reminded us that Christmas signifies God coming to meet humanity—leaving heaven and entering the world for our sake. While acknowledging the role of decorations and celebrations, he stressed that without Christ, Christmas loses its true meaning.
The program concluded with the vote of thanks proposed by Sr. Jasilda Dsouza, Superior of Nirmala Hrudaya Convent, and the event was gracefully compered by Ms. Sony Fernandes.
