PUNE: Midnight masses, preceded by joyous carol singing at various churches in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad on Tuesday ushered in the weeklong Christmas celebrations.
The Christmas celebrations were led by a late-night mass celebrated by Pune Bishop Thomas Dabre at St Patrick’s Cathedral.
A large number of devotees participated in the special prayers held to mark the birthday of Jesus Christ.
Large cribs depicting the scene of the nativity were special attractions at all the churches. At some churches, cake and coffee were served to the gathering after the late-night religious ceremony. Christmas masses and other prayers will also be held at all churches in the city on Wednesday morning for those who could not attend the late-night religious ceremony.
A large number of social and cultural activities have been arranged at most churches during the Christmas week concluding with New Year celebrations.
