A round 150 children between the ages of four and 14, dressed up as angels, shepherds and kings, gathered at St Anthony’s Parish to sing Christmas carols at an event titled ‘Carols of the Season’, which was organised by the parish’s Little Friends of Jesus late Sunday evening.
Popping red and green balloons headed for the blue heavens and fireworks marked the start of the programme that was arranged ahead of Christmas, an annual celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ on December 25. The beautifully decorated Christmas tree received plenty of awe and admiration from everyone. Decorated with Christmas ornaments and lit up with Christmas lights, the whole church compound set the mood to celebrate the birth of Jesus in an atmosphere of peace and love.
“It’s extremely important that we teach our children about our culture and religion, and that is precisely what this event is all about,” said Erum Gonsalves, a member of the organising committee. She said, “By singing carols from a young age, our children will learn about the birth of Jesus Christ, and how and why he came into this world. This occasion brings all of us together, and teaches us about the spirit of Christmas.” Other members of the organising group, Anneka Gonsalves and Nadeeka Francis, said since Jesus Christ was born in a stable, some of the children have been dressed up as shepherds, whereas others as angels.
Mary and Joseph, with Baby Jesus in the manger, were the main characters of the tableau.
Cedric Gonsalves said some of the children were dressed up as kings to signify that the rulers worshipped Christ when he was born.
The idea behind the event was to retell the story of Christmas.
The happy and excited children sang around 20 carols, including Mary’s Boy Child, Joy to the World, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, O Come All Ye Faithful, We Wish You a Merry Christmas, and Baby Jesus Went to Sleep.
A delightful surprise awaited the audience when children sang Jingle Bells, and Santa Claus made his grand entry, distributing sweets among the kids.
After the amazing performance, children received presents from Santa Claus for their remarkable singing and for being good all year.
A Christmas Bazaar was also organised, which comprised stalls featuring a lot of unique and beautiful Christmas ornaments, decoration items, special food delicacies and games.
The church premises were brimming with people having the time of their life, hanging out, meeting friends and making new acquaintances.
How wonderful and brave of all those who participated and their children, in a usually inhospitable to Christianity country.
it was a really amazing event, children seemed full of joy and the decoration of the stage and surrounding was so unique, the use of lanterns made the ambiance Christmasy
it was very well organized and beautifully presented.
Good Job Carols of the Season Team!
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