Christmas in Capital: A celebration of peace, joy and faith

As the clock struck midnight on Christmas eve, the Capital came alive with twinkling lights, vibrant carol singing and a deep sense of reverence. The Christian community in Delhi ushered in Christmas Day with the centuries-old tradition of Midnight Mass, a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and reflect on His message of peace and love. Churches across the city were adorned with sparkling lights, stars and Christmas trees, creating a warm and festive atmosphere for the faithful.

One of the most significant and moving traditions of Christmas is the Midnight Mass. As the clock signaLled the arrival of Christmas Day, bishops in various churches unveiled statues of baby Jesus, symbolising His birth in Bethlehem. At the Sacred Heart Cathedral, one of the oldest and most beautiful churches in Delhi, a replica of the manger where Jesus was born, complete with a green cowshed and a crib, was set up for the occasion. Archbishop of the Cathedral, in a moment of solemn celebration, placed the statue of the baby Jesus at the exact moment of midnight, marking the start of the holy day.

Father Robinson, the Public Relations Officer for the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), described the significance of the Midnight Mass, which is central to Christmas observances. “During the mass, the priest unveils the statue of baby Jesus, which is covered by a white cloth. At the stroke of midnight, it is revealed, and we sing carols, celebrating the birth of Jesus,” Father Robinson explained. “The mass is a celebration of the Nativity, the birth of Christ, and it is a time of joy and peace.”

For many devotees, attending Midnight Mass is a spiritual experience, one filled with reflection and prayer. “Before Christmas, we seek forgiveness for our sins, as it is for our sins that Christ died,” said Nancy, a devotee at the Sacred Heart Cathedral. As the mass concluded, people flocked to the altar, some kneeling in prayer, others quietly admiring the serene beauty of the manger scene.

Christmas Day saw thousands of people, both Christians and non-Christians alike, visiting churches to seek blessings and offer prayers. Father Robinson noted that while the celebration is religious in nature, it has a universal appeal. “Many non-Christians come to the church on Christmas Day, drawn by the joy and the warmth of the occasion,” he said. The churches were alive with songs and prayers, while the festive decorations — glittering stars, angels, and beautifully lit Christmas trees — added to the charm.

The symbolism of Christmas is not just in the decorations or the festive carols, but in the deeper meanings these hold. The star, so prominent in Christmas displays, is a reminder of the Star of Bethlehem, which guided the three wise men to the birthplace of Jesus. “The star led the kings to the place where Jesus was born,” Father Robinson explained. “It represents the light of Christ, guiding all to the truth of His birth and mission.”

Equally significant are the angels, who in the nativity story were the ones who first announced the birth of Jesus to the shepherds, spreading the news of the Savior’s arrival. The star and angels together symbolise hope, guidance and divine revelation.

As for the Christmas carols, these play a pivotal role in setting the tone for the celebration. While many cultures have their own versions, English carols such as “Silent Night” and “Joy to the World” are especially popular. “Silent Night” speaks of the peace and calm that accompanied Jesus’ birth, while “Joy to the World” celebrates the joy that His arrival brought to humanity. Father Robinson shared that “Joy to the World” expresses the profound truth that Jesus is the King who brings joy and peace to all.

In India, one of the most beloved Hindi carols is “Chup Hai Chanda”, a beautiful song that reflects the serenity of the night Jesus was born. The carol captures the stillness and awe of the moment, as the world awaited the arrival of the Savior.

Amid the festivities, Father Robinson also shared some lesser-known facts about the birth of Jesus. “Jesus was born of the Virgin Mary, a fact that makes His birth unique and divine. He was born not in a grand palace, but in a humble cow shed, a place where animals were kept,” he said. “This humble beginning signifies the selflessness and humility that Jesus embodied throughout His life.”

Another important aspect of the nativity story is the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem, where they had no place to stay due to the overwhelming number of people arriving for a census. “They ended up in a stable, where Jesus was born,” Father Robinson explained. “This humble setting is depicted in the crib scene, which is a tradition in many churches.”

The most profound truth about Christmas, according to Father Robinson, lies in the journey of Jesus from the crib to the cross. “Jesus was born in a stable, and He died on the cross,” he said. “This journey, from the crib to the cross, represents the journey of salvation that He undertook for all of humanity.”

For Delhi’s Christian community, Christmas is not only a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ but a time to reflect on His teachings of love, peace and redemption. Whether through Midnight Mass, the singing of carols or the quiet reverence of a prayer, Christmas serves as a reminder of the joy and hope that Jesus’ birth brought to the world — a message that resonates deeply in today’s times, bringing people together in faith and celebration.