BELAGAVI
The Catholic community, which includes several Goans, will have to participate in early Christmas Mass on December 24 in both the neighbouring dioceses of Belgaum and Karwar, amid a night curfew imposed in Karnataka.
Bishop of Belgaum Derek Fernandes, who also holds the charge of the Karwar diocese, has stated that Christmas celebrations in Belgaum and Karwar dioceses will be held early this year.
“However, priests will offer midnight prayers in all churches, so that the tradition of midnight prayers continues,” Bishop Fernandes said.
“Considering the prevailing circumstances, I had issued a circular to priests of both dioceses to hold early masses. With Karnataka imposing night curfew from December 23 to January 2, the decision has now come in handy.”
“Masses at all churches in both the dioceses will be now held from 7 pm onwards and will culminate at around 9.30 pm,” said Bishop Fernandes while speaking to media persons on Wednesday.
In his Christmas message, he said Christmas is a very important feast for Christians, second only to the celebration of Easter.
“However, priests in the diocese will pray privately at midnight the specified prayers from wherever they are.”
“As we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, we do not merely celebrate the birth of Baby Jesus 2000 years ago but we celebrate the love which God has showed us by sending his only Son to be our Saviour.”
“Let us share whatever we have with the poor and needy at this Christmas and share this love of God,” said Bishop Fernandes, while also conveying his Christmas wishes to the people of Goa.
