Mangalore : Christmas Eve, that is the night of Dec 24, is very important for Christians as Jesus is believed to have been born at midnight.
Earlier, the Christmas ceremony used to commence at 11:30 p.m. with the singing of carols and celebration at 12:00 midnight. But, a few years back, churches changed the mass timings to 7:30 p.m. or 8:00 p.m. to ensure the protection of the people attending the mass and reach home safely.
Churches all over Mangalore held that Christmas Eve mass between 7:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. The devotees were very discipline and not created any rush.
The bells rang and carols were sung in various parishes across Mangalore Diocese. The entire city sparkling with the miniature lights and twinkling stars. The decorated Christmas trees were placed at some spots, adding to the charm of Christmas.
Later, the Mass commenced at 10:00 p.m. at Rosario Cathedral, with Bishop of Mangalore Diocese Dr. Aloysius Paul D’Souza concelebrating. Addressing the gathering, he said that Jesus Christ was created by God, but he incarnated himself as a poor human being in order to be with the people and preach them the essence of love, harmony, and peace.
The police department ensured smooth flow of traffic and provided security to the people.