Celebrating the spirit of X-mas

MALLIKA DUTT KALLINGAL
NEW DELHI: Christmas is a time for giving. A time not only to enjoy oneself but to spread the message of peace and goodwill. But often in the rush and excitement of gifts and goodies people tend to forget that Christmas for the not-so-fortunate may not be so merry after all.
As Christians gear up to enjoy themselves during Christmas, some organisations are trying to emulate the spirit of Christmas by making others happy.
Says Sister Sabita of the Missionaries of Charity, “Most of the people in our homes are too sick to celebrate Christmas. But we try in a small way to make Christmas memorable for them. The carol singers have already been here and done their bit. And on Christmas day we provide clothes and a special meal for those with us.�
Archbishop Vincent M Concessau has already visited Tihar jail for the Christmas programme held there. Children sang carols and performed nativity plays in an effort to bring the prisoners hope.
St Stephen’s College has its own Social Service League that visits orphanages. “The students distribute gifts and clothes to the less fortunate in an effort to bring some joy into their lives,� said principal Anil Wilson.
The social service wing of the Delhi Catholic Archdiocese (DCA) has several outreach programmes that arrange Christmas parties for the less fortunate. “These parties are held for the local people and anyone is welcome to attend,� said Fr Dominic, spokesperson of the DCA.
At the Ozanam Home for the elderly, Sister Bina feels that Christmas is a time when old people need to feel wanted. “Since those here have no family we decorate the home for them.�
Sister Conceicao of St Michaels Junior School said that the sisters visit the nearby leper colony and distribute blankets, clothes and food to the 40 families living there.
So although Santa doesn’t come visiting, it takes just a few thoughtful souls to brighten up the lives of those less fortunate.