by Ravi Phillips
Dhanbad: Marking the birth festival of Lord Jesus Christ, Rev. Ajit Horo, Chairman of St. Mary’s Church (CNI), Dhanbad, delivered a powerful message centred on love, forgiveness and reconciliation, describing Christmas as a living expression of divine love rather than a mere celebration.
Addressing a special prayer meeting at the church, Rev. Horo quoted John 3:16, calling it the greatest verse of the Bible and a timeless reminder of God’s unconditional love for humanity. He said Lord Jesus Christ taught two eternal values — complete devotion to God and love for one’s neighbour — and stressed that peace and forgiveness reflect the Creator’s will for mankind.
“If God’s love lives in our hearts, it will be reflected in our thoughts, words and actions,” he said, urging people to rise above division, hatred and unrest. His emotional appeal for compassion and mutual respect drew loud applause and repeated cries of “Amen” from the congregation.
Christmas celebrations are in full swing across Dhanbad, with churches hosting carol singing, nativity plays and community feasts. The local administration has made special security and traffic arrangements to ensure smooth festivities.
Rev. Horo’s message has resonated beyond the Christian community as well, with many residents seeing it as a broader call for social harmony, unity and shared humanity.
