- 26 December, 2025
Kolkata, December 26, 2025 — West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee joined the Christmas Eve service at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary, marking her continued presence at the annual celebration in the city.
The solemn liturgical service was presided over by Archbishop Dr Elias Frank of Calcutta. On her arrival at the cathedral premises, the Chief Minister was received by the Archbishop and senior clergy. She inaugurated the Christmas crib set up at the cathedral before proceeding inside the church. Security arrangements restricted entry to parishioners, invited dignitaries and members of the media.
The service included a carol session featuring hymns in Bengali and English, creating a prayerful atmosphere inside the historic cathedral. The Chief Minister, along with other dignitaries, including Member of Parliament Derek O’Brien, participated in the service with reverence.
During the celebration, a Christmas message reflecting on the spiritual significance of the season was delivered, drawing attention to the central message of faith, hope and peace associated with the birth of Christ. The Chief Minister was later invited to the sanctuary, where the Archbishop offered a special blessing and she greeted the congregation.
Ms Banerjee also extended her greetings to the Missionaries of Charity sisters present at the service, acknowledging their contribution to society through service to the poor and marginalised.
The Holy Eucharistic celebration continued in a solemn and prayerful manner, with the faithful joining in the observance of Christmas, commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ.
The Chief Minister’s participation once again underscored the tradition of communal harmony and interfaith respect associated with Christmas celebrations in Kolkata.
Archdiocese of Calcutta
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