The historic garrison towns of Danapur and Khagaul in Patna resonated with the timeless spirit of Christmas on Thursday, as centuries-old churches hosted vibrant celebrations marked by rich tradition and deep religious fervour. A large number of devotees gathered for midnight and special masses, filling the sacred spaces with prayer, joy, and a strong sense of community.
Historic Churches Witness Massive Gatherings
Men, women, and children, adorned in their finest festive attire, thronged the churches. The air was filled with the exchange of Christmas greetings and warm embraces, creating an atmosphere of pure joy. The celebrations were beautifully underscored by hymns, prayers, and universal messages of peace and goodwill.
At the iconic 198-year-old St Luke's Church, Army priest Rev Bipin reported a gathering of approximately 1,000 devotees. The congregation included both army personnel and civilians. "The devotees participated in special prayers and shared greetings, reflecting the strong communal spirit," Rev Bipin said, highlighting the unifying power of the occasion.
Similarly, the 172-year-old St Stephen’s Church located within the Danapur cantonment celebrated with great gusto and religious zeal. A BRC official shared that army officials and their families participated actively in the special mass. The service was followed by a heartwarming tradition of sharing cakes among the entire congregation, symbolizing fellowship and joy.
Festive Joy and Family Vibrancy
The 132-year-old Anglican Christ Church in Khagaul emerged as a major centre of attraction. A key highlight for the younger attendees was the joyful appearance of Santa Claus, who brought wide smiles and excitement to the children. Church president Pawan Agarwal noted, "The joyful presence of families and young worshippers added vibrancy to the occasion."
Not far away, the 119-year-old Catholic Church in Khagaul also witnessed a huge turnout of the faithful. Father Nishant described a scene where devotees greeted each other warmly and offered special prayers. These acts, he emphasized, reinforced the core Christmas spirit of unity and devotion.
Nostalgia and Enduring Faith
Amidst the celebrations, a note of nostalgia was expressed by some members of the Anglo-Indian community. Many from this community have migrated to other places over the years. They reflected that Christmas in the region has lost some of its historical sheen due to changing demographics over time.
However, the enduring essence of the festival shone through. Father Albert of Anglican Christ Church offered a poignant perspective, stating, "Despite this sentiment, the celebrations at Danapur and Khagaul reflected enduring faith, tradition and community bonding, keeping alive the timeless spirit of Christmas." The day ultimately stood as a powerful testament to the region's living heritage and the unbreakable bonds of community and faith.
