New Delhi, Dec 25 (NationPress) On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the Christmas celebrations at the Cathedral Church of the Redemption in New Delhi, joining a large gathering of Christians from both Delhi and various regions of North India.

The church was filled with worshippers who came together to celebrate Christmas, honoring the birth of Lord Jesus Christ.

The service included heartfelt prayers, carols, and hymns, embodying the essence of joy, reflection, and unity that this festival brings. A special prayer was also offered for the Prime Minister by Rt. Rev. Dr. Paul Swarup, the Bishop of Delhi.

In a message shared on X, PM Modi expressed, "I attended the Christmas morning service at the Cathedral Church of the Redemption in Delhi. The service conveyed the eternal message of love, peace, and compassion. May the spirit of Christmas ignite harmony and goodwill in our society."

Earlier in the day, in celebration of Christmas, Prime Minister Modi reached out to citizens nationwide, sharing wishes of peace, compassion, and hope.

In a post on X, he noted, "Wishing all a joyful Christmas abundant in peace, compassion, and hope. May the teachings of Jesus Christ bolster harmony within our society."

Christmas is celebrated globally on this day, commemorating the birth of Lord Jesus Christ. In India, individuals from various faiths and cultural backgrounds unite to celebrate this festival, sharing traditions and moments that highlight the country's diversity and unity.

This festival is widely regarded as a time for joy, reflection, and community, transcending the customs of decorating Christmas trees or exchanging gifts, and emphasizing values of love, compassion, and harmony that resonate across various communities.

Celebrated every December 25, Christmas signifies the birth anniversary of Jesus Christ and is intertwined with messages of hope, peace, forgiveness, and love. Although primarily a Christian festival, its universal significance has led to its acceptance as a global celebration among individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Christmas embodies a fusion of Christian beliefs and ancient winter customs. Although the Bible does not pinpoint the exact date of Jesus’ birth, early Christians selected December 25 to coincide with existing winter festivities. Celebrations like Saturnalia were held in ancient Rome around the winter solstice, characterized by feasting, gift-giving, and joyous gatherings.

By the fourth century, Christmas was officially recognized as a Christian festival. As it spread throughout Europe and beyond, local traditions blended with religious practices. Customs such as decorating evergreen trees, exchanging gifts, singing carols, and celebrating with family gradually became fundamental to Christmas festivities.

Today, Christmas is recognized not only as a religious event but also as a cultural celebration that fosters values of love, peace, generosity, and unity among communities worldwide.