Abu Dhabi rings in Christmas with prayers

Indian Orthodox Church Bangalore Diocese metropolitan Dr Abraham Mar Seraphim.

Churches across the Capital held vigil masses on Christmas Eve to usher in the 'festival of togetherness'. Morning, evening and late night prayer sessions were held at all the churches.
Indian Orthodox Church Bangalore Diocese metropolitan Dr Abraham Mar Seraphim led the prayers at St George Cathedral. He is on a special visit to oversee prayer proceedings for Christmas and New Year celebrations.
This is an opportunity for everyone to take a new slant on life, Seraphim told Khaleej Times while going through the preparations.
"We all have chaotic life and run after material gains. But from now, let us all spend time with those we love and those who love us. Let this Christmas help in that aspect."
He said Christmas is a 'festival of togetherness'. "Christmas is a celebration where all people and the whole nature come together." He lauded the vision and benevolence of the UAE rulers.
"The UAE is a nation where people can come and live together. I pray for the rulers and leaders of this nation as they all allowed us to work and live together. Christmas is relevant not only once a year but every day and every moment. It's only then that we can celebrate life. When people come together and love each other then that is Christmas. The UAE is a place where we celebrate Christmas and exchange love every day."
He urged faithful to 'experience' love and peace. "Especially in this modern world, we face lot of issues. There are hatred and other elements in the community. But here in the Christmas season, God extended his love to the people and to the nature. So let this Christmas help us to come together as one family and one body, so that we can experience the love and peace throughout our life," he added.
Two-hour prayers were held from 6 pm, followed by 'purifying fire' ritual at St George Orthodox Cathedral.
"This is a symbolic event to mark the birth of Jesus Christ. It was the angels who told about the birth to shepherds sitting around bonfire, and hence this event," Cathedral Vicar Father MC Mathai Maracheril said.
The rituals were followed by vigil mass that are seen as 'feast of light'.
Thousands of faithful attended the prayers hoping for peace and love across the churches in the Capital.
ashwani@khaleejtimes.com

• Abu Dhabi