Mangaluru: St Aloysius Pre-University College celebrated Christmas with deep spiritual fervour and cultural vibrancy, reaffirming the belief that Christmas is not merely a season, but a feeling rooted in love, peace and goodwill. The campus was beautifully adorned with festive decorations, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for students and staff alike.
Message of peace and Emmanuel
The celebration began with a spiritually uplifting prayer dance that conveyed the essence of Christmas — love, friendship and peace. In his welcome address and Christmas message, the Principal, Rev. Fr Clifford Sequeira SJ, emphasised that Christmas is not just a festival but a feeling. Reflecting on the growing commercialisation of the occasion, he observed that for Christians, Christmas remains a profoundly personal and spiritual experience.
Quoting the angels’ proclamation, “Glory to God in the highest and peace to people of goodwill,” he explained that peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but a way of life founded on compassion, understanding and mutual respect. He further reflected on the meaning of Emmanuel — “God with us” — reminding the gathering that God journeys alongside humanity through its struggles and challenges.
Chief Guest reflects on sacrifice and inclusivity
The Chief Guest, Rev. Fr Henry Saldanha SJ, a distinguished educationist and former headmaster and principal of several institutions, shared a deeply moving Christmas message. Recalling his own student days at Aloysius, he reflected on the deeper meaning of Christmas through a story of sacrifice, stressing that Christmas is about giving the most precious gift one possesses.
He cautioned against reducing Christmas merely to decorations and Santa Claus, reminding students that Christmas is the feast of Jesus and a celebration of inclusivity. Emphasising that God excludes no one, he urged students to build communities rooted in peace, friendship and understanding, and wished everyone a joyful Christmas and a blessed New Year.
Cultural performances add festive colour
The celebration came alive with a variety of cultural performances, including hip-hop and contemporary dances, ballroom dance, a hula-hoop performance and a lively band show. Christmas carols echoed the true message of the season, while a song-drama portraying the life of Christ depicted how love was restored to the world through His birth. The programme was compered by students Adleen Sequeira and Liston Carl.
Prizes were also distributed to sports teams that had represented the institution at national, state and inter-class levels, recognising their achievements and dedication.
Staff celebration and reflections
During the staff Christmas celebration, Rev. Fr Antony Derick, Campus Minister, reflected on the deeper meaning of Christmas, highlighting that joy follows hard work and gratitude follows sacrifice. Through a simple anecdote, he reminded staff that Christmas signifies God coming down to be with humanity, filling lives with hope and joy.
Ms Rose Mary, a benefactor from London, spoke on the symbolism of the Christmas star, crib and Christmas tree, encouraging everyone to become a source of light and kindness in the lives of others. Games organised by Ms Pramila Patrao and a meaningful drama by the support staff added warmth to the celebration. Christmas sweets were distributed to all staff after lunch. The staff programme was compered by Ms Sweedal Pais, with the vote of thanks proposed by Ms Meural Andrade.
