Civic Christmas Celebration Marks Holy Family Sunday at Chethupattu, Tamil Nadu

Chethupattu, Tamil Nadu, January 2, 2026: A grand Civic Christmas Celebration was solemnly and joyfully held on Holy Family Sunday evening at Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine, Chethupattu under the aegis of the Catholic Diocese of Vellore. The event reflected the true spirit of Christmas by bringing together people across religious, social, and political boundaries in a shared message of peace, unity, and goodwill.

The celebration witnessed the participation of Chethupattu’s civic and administrative leadership, including political leaders from various parties, non-political representatives, civil officials, and religious heads from different faith traditions. Their presence highlighted the town’s commitment to harmony, mutual respect, and communal brotherhood.

The sacred and civic gathering was led by Msgr. I. John Robert, Parish Priest of the Chethupattu shrine. He was joined by senior clergy of the diocese, including Fr. James Vincent, Fr. Jeyakumar, and Fr. Anish, Assistant Parish Priest. Together, they guided the celebration with prayers and reflections centred on the significance of Christmas and the Holy Family.

In their Christmas messages, the clergy emphasised the Holy Family as a model for contemporary society, calling families to live in love, faith, sacrifice, and mutual understanding. They also highlighted the relevance of Christmas values in public life, urging both leaders and citizens to work collectively for social justice, peace, and the upliftment of the poor and marginalised.

The evening featured melodious Christmas carols and cultural programmes that created a vibrant yet prayerful atmosphere. Messages of goodwill resonated throughout the programme, reinforcing the message that Christmas transcends divisions and calls people to solidarity and compassion.

The active participation of leaders from diverse walks of life gave the celebration a truly civic and inclusive character, making it a memorable occasion for the people of Chethupattu. The event stood as a visible expression of unity in diversity and the shared responsibility of building a peaceful society.

The celebration concluded with words of gratitude and blessings, reaffirming the Church’s continued commitment to fostering unity, dialogue, and peace within the wider community.

By Fr. Daniel Sharma

Vinnarasi Communication

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