Christmas Celebrations at the Prime Minister's Residence
A group of bishops, Christian leaders from various walks of life, sportspersons, and others from across the country were invited to the Prime Minister’s residence on 25th December 2023 for Christmas celebrations. Some of the leaders were asked to speak for about three minutes. The Bishop of Delhi (CNI), the Rt Revd Dr Paul Swarup shared the meaning of Christmas and the goodnews the angels shared with the shepherds. He used the wordless book with various colours to share the gospel with the invitees. He began depicting creation with green, the fall and the entry of sin into the human realm with black, the death of Christ and his sacrifice for us on the cross with red, the cleansing and sanctification with white, the crown of life that awaits our faithful walk with gold and the new creation again with green. The Bishop of Delhi shared the credo of the Christian Faith: that “Christ has come, Christ has died, Christ is risen, and Christ shall come again" affirming the death, resurrection, and future return of Christ to the Prime Minister and the citizens of India. At the end of it he gifted the Prime Minister of India, Shri. Narendra Modi, the Holy Bible.
Bishop Swarup gifting the Prime Minister of India, Shri. Narendra Modi, the Holy Bible.
After the guests had spoken the Prime Minister gave the Christmas address. In his address to the nation, he referred to the role of St. Stephen's College, (Diocesan Institution) during the independence movement. He talked about the first Indian Principal of St Stephen’s Prof S.K Rudra in whose house the idea of non-cooperation with the British was conceived. He highlighted the contribution of the Christian community both in the field of education and health care over the decades. The Christian community appreciates the recognition of its contribution by the Prime Minister on this occasion.
By participating in such events, the Diocese has built bridges for mutual conversation. The Diocese of Delhi acknowledges that there are various issues facing the Christian community that needs to be addressed by the Government of India. Despite all the challenges, Christmas is an occasion to share the Good News with those of different faiths. Christmas, in its true spirit, encourages us to spread goodwill, which aligns with the Diocesan focus of building bridges and breaking walls.
The Diocese of Delhi is grateful for the opportunity to share in the festive joy with the Prime Minister and the national leaders. As we move forward, let us continue to work toward a harmonious society where all voices are heard, all sections uplifted and the true essence of equality is reflected in our actions.
