LEH: The Moravian Church in Leh observed Christmas with deep spiritual fervour and a strong message of peace, compassion and social harmony, as members of the local Christian community gathered for a special Christmas service on Thursday.
Addressing the congregation, church representatives extended heartfelt Christmas greetings to all residents of Leh, emphasising that Christmas symbolises God’s love for humanity and calls upon people to live with mutual respect, compassion and brotherhood.
The sermon highlighted the true essence of Christmas as a reminder to spread love, kindness and peace in society.
Special prayers were offered for the families of those who lost their lives in the tragic incident of September 24, remembering the martyrs and seeking divine strength and peace for their bereaved families.
The congregation also prayed for the speedy recovery of all injured persons, invoking blessings for their healing and wellbeing.
In a strong appeal for justice and reconciliation, prayers were also offered for those currently detained, expressing hope that they would be released soon so that lasting peace could be restored in Leh and the region at large. The church members collectively prayed for a harmonious New Year, free from unrest and suffering.
The Christmas service concluded with a renewed call for unity, peace and goodwill, reinforcing the timeless message of Christmas — love for one another, compassion for the suffering, and prayers for a peaceful and inclusive society.
The Moravian Church extended warm Christmas wishes to all residents of Ladakh, wishing that the coming year brings peace, healing and prosperity to the region.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, has extended warm Christmas greetings to the people of Ladakh, especially to the Christian community, on the joyous occasion of Christmas.
In his message, the Lt Governor said that Christmas, which commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, is a festival that symbolizes love, compassion, peace, and goodwill.
He emphasised that the teachings of Jesus Christ inspire humanity to follow the path of selfless service, harmony, and mutual respect.
Kavinder Gupta highlighted that Ladakh is known for its rich cultural diversity and tradition of communal harmony, where people of different faiths live together in peace and brotherhood.
He expressed hope that the festival would further strengthen the bonds of unity and promote the spirit of coexistence in the Union Territory.
The Lt Governor prayed for peace, prosperity, and happiness for all residents of Ladakh and wished that the festive occasion brings renewed hope, joy, and well-being to every household.
“May the spirit of Christmas fill our hearts with kindness and guide us towards building a more inclusive, peaceful, and prosperous Ladakh,” the Lt Governor said.
On this occasion of Christmas from the coldest land of High Himalayas, Bhikkhu Sanghasena also
extended warmest greeting to all, particularly to all the brothers and sisters of Christian community.
“May this auspicious Christmas bring new hope and strength to promote World Peace,” he added.
